Tara Sreekrishnan, a candidate for California's 26th Assembly District in the November 5th election, brings a unique perspective as the daughter of immigrants who overcame poverty, emphasizing the importance of the American Dream for Santa Clara County families. Her primary policy objectives focus on improving education, creating good-paying jobs, ensuring public safety, and fighting for affordable healthcare and housing. Sreekrishnan's experience as an elected member of the Santa Clara County Board of Education has positioned her as a champion for educational excellence, early learning, and mental health services.
Throughout her career, Sreekrishnan has demonstrated commitment to public service at multiple government levels, working as a Legislative Advisor at the city level, Policy and Outreach Director and Chief of Staff at the county level, and holding positions including Legislative Director, Communications Director, and Deputy Chief of Staff at the state level. This diverse experience provides comprehensive understanding of legislative processes and constituent challenges. Her accomplishments include supporting teachers, closing the digital divide through laptop and internet access initiatives, and combating the fentanyl crisis among youth. Legislative efforts have resulted in housing developments for the homeless, school modernization, community safety enhancement, and promotion of job training and apprenticeship programs.
Sreekrishnan is completing her Master's Degree in Public Administration from the U.C. Berkeley Goldman School of Public Policy while demonstrating environmental commitment through co-founding the nonprofit Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action organization, which engages hundreds of local students in environmental sciences and advocates for sustainability and renewable energy. Her environmental activism extends to significant challenges including battling Lehigh Cement, the county's largest polluter, with efforts contributing to shutting down their 100-year-old quarry that reportedly poisoned local air and waterways. Personal experiences, including overcoming cancer, have shaped her resilient approach to tackling tough issues, positioning herself as a candidate "tried, tested, and ready to beat the special interests" for constituents.
Support for Sreekrishnan's campaign has grown with endorsements from prominent California politicians including State Senator Dave Cortese and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, underscoring confidence in her ability to effectively represent the 26th Assembly District. As the election approaches, her campaign highlights the importance of local representation understanding diverse community needs, with her background as a lifelong district resident combined with professional government experience and dedication to public service presenting a compelling case for voters seeking a representative who can navigate state-level politics while remaining connected to local issues. The AD-26 race represents an opportunity for voters to elect a candidate with fresh perspective and strong community connection, emphasizing potential for meaningful change in areas directly impacting residents' daily lives from education and job opportunities to environmental protection and affordable living.
