WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — The Indian American Impact Fund has endorsed Nirav Shah in his bid to become the next governor of Maine, marking a major moment for representation in U.S. politics and adding momentum to the state’s Democratic primary race. If elected, Shah would make history as the first Indian American and first person of color elected governor of Maine. He would also become the first Indian American Democratic governor in the United States. The endorsement highlights Shah’s leadership record in public health and his focus on addressing affordability issues that affect families across Maine.
The Indian American Impact Fund announced its endorsement Tuesday, citing Shah’s experience, crisis leadership, and commitment to public service. The group, founded in 2016, works to expand Indian and South Asian American political representation nationwide through candidate endorsements, voter engagement, and policy advocacy.
The organization has supported more than 200 candidates across the country and invested over $20 million in elections and civic participation efforts.
Shah brings a rare blend of legal, medical, and executive experience to the governor’s race. He holds both a law degree and a medical degree from the University of Chicago. His career has focused on health care law, public health management, and government service.
In 2019, Maine Gov. Janet Mills appointed Shah as director of the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention. He soon faced the most serious public health crisis in modern history. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Shah led Maine’s statewide response and earned bipartisan praise for his steady approach. Under his leadership, Maine secured early access to personal protective equipment for health care workers. The state expanded testing capacity and rolled out vaccines at record speed. Maine achieved some of the nation’s highest vaccination rates while maintaining one of the lowest COVID-19 death rates in the country.
Shah’s pandemic leadership drew national attention. In recognition of his work, President Joe Biden appointed him as principal deputy director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The role made Shah the agency’s second-in-command during a critical period for public health policy and recovery. Shah later returned to Maine, saying he wanted to continue serving the state that trusted him during its darkest hours. His campaign now centers on affordability, economic growth, and community stability.
Chintan Patel, executive director of the Indian American Impact Fund, said Shah represents the kind of leadership voters need now. Patel pointed to Shah’s pandemic record as proof he can manage complex problems while keeping people safe and informed. The group said Shah’s background as a first-generation American and career public servant aligns with its core values of fairness, opportunity, and integrity.
Shah welcomed the endorsement and called it deeply meaningful. He said his family’s story reflects the promise that public service and hard work can improve lives. He noted that Maine placed its trust in him during the pandemic, and he aims to bring that same approach to the governor’s office. Shah said his priorities include lowering health care costs, expanding affordable housing, reducing energy expenses, and strengthening local economies. He emphasized collaboration and data-driven solutions as key tools for progress.
