WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — Pia Dandiya earned a boost in her campaign for Congress in Florida’s 21st District after the Indian American Impact Fund announced its endorsement, calling her the strongest Democrat to take on Republican incumbent Brian Mast in one of the most competitive races of 2026.

If elected, Dandiya would make history as the first South Asian American to represent Florida in Congress. Advocates say her candidacy reflects the growing influence of the state’s large South Asian community, which continues to play a bigger role in politics nationwide.

Dandiya grew up in Jupiter, Florida, as the daughter of Indian immigrants. Her career spans education, government, and technology. She began as a teacher, then became a high school principal in New York, where she founded one of the city’s top-performing schools. Under her leadership, every graduate earned admission to college, despite many facing serious economic challenges.

Later, she served as a White House Fellow, where she worked on national education and economic policy. She also held a senior role at Apple, leading public sector initiatives to modernize education, health care, and government services in states across the country.

Chintan Patel, executive director of the Indian American Impact Fund, praised Dandiya’s record of public service. “We are proud to endorse Pia Dandiya because she represents the best of what public service should be,” Patel said. He added that her work has helped thousands of students and families and stressed that she offers Democrats their best chance to defeat Mast.

Patel also highlighted her strong ties to the district. “Pia’s experience, values, and deep roots in this district make her the champion Floridians deserve in Congress,” he said.

For Dandiya, the endorsement carries both personal and political meaning. “I was born and raised in this district by parents who came to this country in pursuit of the American dream,” she said. She noted that her career has focused on giving families a fair chance to succeed, whether in the classroom, the White House, or the tech sector.

She also thanked the Indian American Impact Fund for its support. “I’m deeply grateful to Indian American Impact for their endorsement and for their leadership in ensuring immigrant communities like mine are represented,” she said. “Together, we can build a future where every Floridian has a real chance not just to survive, but to thrive.”

The Indian American Impact Fund has become a key force in American politics. Since its launch in 2016, the group has supported more than 200 candidates nationwide. Its work has helped drive the rapid rise of Indian and South Asian American leaders at every level of government. To date, the organization has invested over $20 million in campaigns, voter outreach, and policy advocacy.

With this endorsement, Dandiya enters the 2026 race with fresh momentum. Florida’s 21st District remains one of the top battlegrounds in the country. Mast, a staunch ally of President Donald Trump, has held the seat since 2017. Democrats believe Dandiya’s personal story, combined with her professional record, makes her a strong challenger in a high-stakes contest.