RICHMOND, Va. (Diya TV) — Dr. Danny Avula is poised to make history as Richmond’s next mayor, becoming the city’s first-ever Indian-American to take the seat. Preliminary results are showing that Avula is ahead in six of nine districts, secured by 46% of the overall vote, while former City Council President Michelle Mosby leads in three districts.
Avula’s election night event had plenty of local firefighters and everyone else who wanted to vote for him. Speaking after a speech to his supporters, “I’m optimistic, clearly because the official results haven’t come in yet,” he said, “I’ve been so proud to see people from all walks of life supporting our vision for a healthy and thriving Richmond.”.
Avula’s victory reflects shifting demographics in the city as more immigrant newcomers claim Richmond as home. His election also heralds a larger change for Richmond: Avula, 46, is deeply rooted in the city. He has lived in Richmond’s East End for more than two decades. His wife, Mary Kay, is a local public school teacher, and their five children attend or have graduated from Richmond Public Schools.
If the final results indeed confirm his victory, then Avula will replace the incumbent Mayor Levar Stoney, who has himself credited Avula for his capability to handle the pressures of being Richmond’s mayor. He has vowed to focus on public health, housing, and economic equality.
Newcomers to the City Council include Andrew “Gumby” Breton, Sarah Abubaker, and Reva Trammell, signaling that Richmond’s governance at local levels will see further changes.
It is one of those huge moments for the city-a new election into more and more political representation by immigrants and minorities.
