By Sudarshan Pyakurel MA MSW

Elections in democratic nations are often moments of anticipation and hope, especially in the United States, where the stakes are high both domestically and globally. Every four years, discussions on policies, alliances, and global politics ignite as voters and candidates alike consider the broader implications of America’s future leadership. This election cycle, however, held a particularly historic milestone for a community that’s relatively new to the American democratic process: the Bhutanese-American community.

Amid the whirlwind of presidential and congressional races, a quieter yet powerful campaign was underway in New Hampshire’s District 40 for State Representative. Suraj Budathoki —a former refugee, peace activist, and doctoral student at Saybrook University—ran for office with a vision of amplifying the voices of his community. His victory not only made him the first Bhutanese-American State Representative in U.S. history, but it also marked a significant step for the Bhutanese-American community’s political presence and influence.

With over 100,000 Bhutanese-Americans in the U.S., their participation this year carried a unique blend of hope and uncertainty, especially with immigration issues at the forefront.

In his heartfelt victory remarks, Suraj Budathoki stated, “This victory is not just a result of three months of hard work; it is the culmination of 16 years of dedication, resilience, and commitment to this community.” 

Suraj’s journey to elected office is a story of resilience, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to his community. While he isn’t the first Bhutanese-American elected to public office—that honor belongs to Bhuwan Pyakurel, who won a city council seat in Reynoldsburg, Ohio in 2018—Suraj’s win carries profound symbolic weight. Since Bhutanese refugees began resettling in the U.S. in 2008, the community has only recently begun to see itself reflected in American political structures. Suraj’s victory represents a powerful new chapter of representation and visibility.

Suraj’s win quickly became a sensation on social media, sparking pride and celebration across the Bhutanese diaspora, which includes former refugees resettled across eight Western countries. Bhutanese-American social media platforms lit up with messages of pride, congratulatory posts, and reflections on the significance of this victory.

For many in the community, Suraj’s success offers a beacon of hope—a sign that their voices are finally being heard and that they have a representative who understands the complex issues surrounding migration, displacement, and cultural identity.

Beyond his new role as a state representative, Suraj has long been an active community leader. Formerly New Hampshire Zonal Manager for Deputy political director for Senator Bernie Sanders’ 2016 presidential campaign, Suraj has dedicated much of his life to advocating for peace and reconciliation. He is the co-founder of Peace Initiative Bhutan (PIB), an organization committed to fostering dialogue and understanding between Bhutan and the Bhutanese diaspora.

Under his leadership, PIB has led multiple delegations to Washington, D.C., aiming to raise awareness of the challenges facing Bhutanese refugees and to build support for a congressional resolution—Senate Res. 108 and House Res. 228—urging Bhutan to acknowledge and address the forced displacement of more than 100,000 Bhutanese citizens during the 1980s and 1990s.

The victory of Suraj Budathoki comes at an opportune time. Many Bhutanese-American leaders are hopeful that with the recent election of former President Donald Trump, who has promised to prioritize global peace efforts, there may be renewed momentum for passing the Bhutan resolution in Congress. The GOP-led House and Senate could play a pivotal role in this process, potentially paving the way for the establishment of a U.S. consulate in Bhutan and improved diplomatic relations between the two countries. This would allow Bhutanese-Americans, especially those from the younger generation, to reconnect with their heritage and visit family members still in Bhutan.

For Bhutanese-Americans, this historic victory not only brings a sense of pride but also shines a light on the complex experiences and enduring struggles that come with being part of a displaced community. Suraj’s election provides hope that issues such as trauma, separation, and the mental health challenges prevalent in the Bhutanese community—one of the highest rates among minority groups in the U.S.—will finally receive the attention and support they deserve.

The 2024 U.S. general election has brought a wave of new beginnings for many first-time Bhutanese-American voters and a historic achievement with Suraj Budathoki’s election. This landmark victory is a testament to the resilience, strength, and potential of the Bhutanese-American community, a proud step toward a more inclusive and representative America.

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