By Raju Lama New York. Nepali-American social activist Somnath Ghimire has officially entered the race for the New York State Assembly, marking a significant step from community advocacy to electoral politics.
A long-time resident of Queens, Ghimire has been actively involved in civic engagement and community leadership for more than two decades. He has worked with various organizations focused on human rights, immigrant support, and social development, and has participated in political campaigns at local and national levels.
Ghimire is contesting from Assembly District 30, a diverse area covering neighborhoods such as Woodside, Jackson Heights, and Elmhurst. The district is known for its multicultural population, where immigrant voices play an increasingly important role in shaping local politics.
His transition from social activism to candidacy reflects a broader trend of community leaders seeking formal political roles to influence policy directly. Over the years, Ghimire has been associated with initiatives supporting workers’ rights, community empowerment, and inclusive representation.
According to reports, his campaign focuses on key issues such as affordable housing, public safety, education, and stronger representation for diverse communities in Queens.
The Democratic primary election for the seat is scheduled for June 2026, where Ghimire is expected to compete with other candidates in what observers describe as a closely watched local race.
Ghimire’s candidacy highlights the growing political participation of South Asian and Nepali-American communities in New York, reflecting their expanding role in the city’s civic and political landscape.
