Suhas

A little over a year ago, I met Suhas Subramanyam for the first time. Last Friday evening, I attended a party for his swearing in as our Congressman in Washington DC. We are lucky to have him represent us, although it was not luck that elected him. It was hard work.

 I was disappointed in the election results nationally, but closer to home here in Virginia, we did well. Senator Tim Kaine was reelected to the United States Senate, and here in the 10th Congressional District (CD), we elected Suhas as our representative.

Electing Suhas was no small thing. Our previous Congresswoman, Jennifer Wexton, retired due to health reasons, meaning the 10th was an open seat. While the district is considered “leaning blue”, Fauquier is a red county. Neither means a lot in a year like 2024.  

Lots of things make a difference in an election: a great candidate, money, shoe leather and a host of other activities. All of those came together over the course of last year, resulting in his winning the primary and then the election itself. Getting the vote out was key and we did our part here in Fauquier. I was excited and happy to play a role in ensuring his election.

Suhas is many things: a former White House advisor under Obama, a member of the Virginia House of Delegates (HoD) and State Senate, a volunteer EMT, a husband and a father. In addition to that background, he has five traits I think will make him a great Congressman.

First, he is an active listener. We all know people who are great talkers, but don’t necessarily listen first. You know, the people who are just waiting for you to finish speaking, so they can add their “valued” opinion. Suhas is not one of those people. He genuinely listens to what you are saying, BEFORE speaking. Imagine that in a politician. 

He is honest. What you see, is what you get. We need that now more than ever.

Third, he is modest. Yes, all politicians have egos, but Suhas keeps his in check. Imagine that.

Next, he is smart. He’s not a talking head and when you listen to him, he gives real answers, not just platitudes. This includes answers to tough questions, such as what can be done in Gaza. There are no simple answers for complex problems. 

And finally, he is a bridge builder. While in the Virginia HoD and Senate, he reached across the aisle and worked with Republicans on several issues of concern to his constituents. I look forward to him doing the same thing in Congress. 

Notice I said nothing about policy or political positions. Yes, he is a Democrat and that informs his positions. But more importantly, he is a person of character, something lacking these days in so many of our elected officials. I trust him to do the right thing.

As I left the party on Friday, we spoke again and I congratulated him one more time. On the drive home, I thought a bit more about Congressman Suhas Subramanyam. I know he will make a difference for all of us in the 10th CD, and for all Americans. I look forward to working with him over the coming years.

Addendum:

• The photo of the Capitol dome was taken from just outside the Longworth House Office Building on the evening of Jan 3, 2025.