CHICAGO: The Indian American Republican Organization (IARO) organized one of the largest gatherings of Indian American business leaders and business owners gala and dinner on October 12 at the India House Banquets in Schaumburg, IL.
IARO is a grass root organization which works to recruit, elect and support candidates at the city, State and National elections who share the Conservative philosophies of family values, lower taxes and economic prosperity.
Close to 400 Indian American leaders gathered to network and discuss ideas on how to jump start our economy and fix the issues plaguing the State of Illinois. The event was widely attended by both local and State elected officials as well as Senators, Congressmen and Governor Candidates. Unlike other organizations, IARO events are free to attend and all expenses are paid directly by the organization.
In attendance were US Senator Mark Kirk, State Senate minority leader Christine Rodagno, GOP Governor Candidate Bruce Rauner, US Senate candidate Jim Oberweis, Illinois GOP Chairman Tim Schneider, Illinois Policy Institute CEO John Tillman and Illinois Chamber of Commerce CEO, Todd Maisch.
Also in attendance were leaders of the Indian American Medical Association, pharmacy groups, small business owners as well as executives from Fortune 500 firms. Local elected officials from Schaumburg, Maine Township, Naperville, Aurora and Dupage and Cook counties also came to the meeting
IARO board member Nimish Bhatt opened the event with his welcome remarks and emphasized: “The candidates that we elect in the upcoming election will determine the future of Illinois.”
IARO Board member Anuraag Bhargava outlined a new mission for IARO for the next election and to ensure politicians remain true to their word.
Illinois Policy Institute CEO John Tillman praised the Indian American community and applauded their contribution. Illinois GOP Chairman Tim Schneider said, “I have always stood by the Indian American community and I see a community of giving, a group of professionals and entrepreneurs.
Republican Party stands for lower taxes, less wasteful spending, a booming economy, term limits and quality of education for our kids and that’s what I know you stand for.”
Todd Maisch, CEO of the Chamber of Commerce expressed his desire to work with IARO and Indian Americans moving forward. “Nimish Jani introduced Bruce Rauner, describing him as the right choice for Illinois and a friend of Indian-Americans: “As a son of Swedish immigrants, Bruce understands the issues faced by immigrants.”
Bruce Rauner gave a fiery speech that brought the crowd to their feet in appreciation and applause: “I promise you today that if I am elected as your next Governor I will work with Indian American community, I will work to create jobs in Illinois and increase trade with the largest democracy in the world, India.”
Illinois Senate minority leader Christine Rodagno pledged her support to IARO and the Indian community.
One of the biggest cheerleaders for the Indian-American cause has been Mark Kirk. He described his positive expertise working with Indian leaders over military and defense cooperation and the campaign against terrorism: “When I look out at this crowd, I see winners. India is a rising country full of winners. The Republican Party would be a lot more interesting with more Indian Americans.”
Bruce Rauner’s running mate Evelyn Sanguinetti identified with the challenges and aspiration of Indian immigrants. Dr Umang Patel and K Amin too addressed the gathering. IARO board member Prajesh Patel thanked the IARO board members in making this event a tremendous success.
IARO plans to organize similar events in other areas of Greater Chicago in the near future to foster greater ties with elected leaders and to elevate the roles if Indian Americans in shaping our future.
Madhu Patel
