From Immigrant to Politician

Kumar grew up in a middle-class family in India, immigrating to the United States for higher education. He immediately became attached to his graduate school, the University of Connecticut, and to his new country.

“I love America for how it embraced me, claimed me as one of its own,” Kumar said. “My university professors invited me to Thanksgiving dinners, and so many on campus guided me, showed me the way in a new country.”

After graduating, he settled down in America and moved to Saratoga with his wife, Seema. Following decades at tech companies and involvement in his local community, including fundraising for local events and supporting local neighborhood watch programs, Kumar progressed into local politics, beginning his tenure as a delegate for the California Democratic Party in 2013 and later continuing onto the Saratoga City Council. He is currently serving his second term.

“Truly speaking, I was always apolitical growing up, but what I could not do was watch something bad happening or a problem emerge and do nothing about it,” Kumar said. “I have always been an activist at heart … I have found my calling in the life of public service. Kindness has amazing outreach. Helping others brings me deep joy.”