NOVI, Mich. (Diya TV) — Dr. Anil Kumar, an Indian American urologist based in Michigan, has entered the race for the U.S. House of Representatives as an independent candidate, stepping outside the two-party system to run in a closely watched open seat. He says deep problems in health care, education, and political representation pushed him to make the move.

Kumar is seeking election from Michigan’s 11th Congressional District. The seat opened after Democratic Rep. Haley Stevens announced a run for the U.S. Senate. Open races, Kumar said, offer rare chances for candidates without party backing to compete on ideas rather than party labels.

Michigan’s 11th District covers parts of Oakland County and nearby areas. It includes about 750,000 residents. Around 200,000 voters usually cast ballots in congressional elections. The district has leaned Democratic in recent cycles, but independent candidates see the open seat as a moment of change. Kumar said voters are tired of rigid party politics. He argued that many residents feel unheard by leaders tied closely to party leadership. Running as an independent, he said, allows him to speak directly to voters without pressure from party leaders or donors.

Health care stands at the heart of Kumar’s campaign. As a practicing urologist, he has spent decades treating patients across Michigan. He said his interest in public office grew more than 10 years ago as he watched costs rise while patient outcomes failed to improve.

The United States spends more on health care than any other country, Kumar said. Yet many families still struggle to pay for basic care. He pointed to patients who delay treatment because of high costs. He said these delays often lead to worse outcomes and higher expenses later. Kumar said lawmakers need real-world medical experience to fix the system. He argues that doctors, patients, and hospitals must have a stronger voice in shaping health policy.

Education is the second major issue shaping Kumar’s run. He serves as an elected member of the Board of Governors at Wayne State University. The position is elected statewide and draws a large voter turnout.

In that role, Kumar said he has seen gaps in learning outcomes across Michigan. He raised concerns about both rural and urban students. He said many graduate without the skills needed for today’s workforce. Kumar said stronger investment and accountability are key. He believes Congress must support policies that improve access, affordability, and quality at all levels of education.

Kumar previously ran for Congress three times as a Democrat. He said those campaigns taught him how party control can limit candidates. He argued that party leaders often shape policy positions and campaign priorities.

That experience led him to leave the party and run as an independent. Kumar said independence gives him more freedom to focus on health care, education, Indian American issues, and U.S.-India relations. He also pointed to broader political trends. More Americans now identify as independents. Many voters in both major parties express frustration with polarization and gridlock in Washington.

Kumar’s personal story plays a central role in his message. He grew up in Jaipur and Mumbai before moving to the United States. Wayne State University sponsored his green card in the 1980s, allowing him to build his medical career in Michigan.

He said that the journey shaped his belief in opportunity and civic duty. Kumar has urged Indian Americans to become more active in politics and political giving. He warned that economic success alone does not ensure long-term influence. He said the community needs stronger unity and participation to gain a larger voice in public life. Representation, he added, matters in shaping policy at every level.

Kumar’s campaign will test whether an independent candidate can break through in a district long dominated by major parties. He said voters deserve more choices and more honest debate.

As the race develops, Kumar plans to focus on door-to-door outreach and community events. He said his goal is simple. He wants to bring practical experience and independent thinking to Congress, and he wants to give voters a real alternative in Michigan’s 11th District.