CAPAC Members Applaud Confirmation of Richard Rahul Verma

Washington, D.C. – Today, Members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements congratulating Richard Rahul Verma on becoming the first Indian American to serve as the U.S. Ambassador to India. The Senate unanimously confirmed Verma by a voice vote last night.

Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA-27), CAPAC Chair:

“I congratulate Richard Rahul Verma on his confirmation as the Ambassador to the Republic of India. His historic confirmation is a wonderful step forward for the Asian American community and marks the first time in history that an Indian American has held this post. I know that Mr. Verma’s distinguished career in public service and strong expertise in human rights and national security will play an invaluable role in strengthening the ties between the U.S. and India. I wish Mr. Verma the best in his new role.”

Congressman Mike Honda (CA-17), CAPAC Chair Emeritus:

“The Senate confirmation of Richard Rahul Verma as our next Ambassador to India is great news for both the U.S. and India. As India enters an important transitional period, it’s an enormous asset to have someone with his extensive foreign policy experience in this critical role. As a member of Congress who represents Silicon Valley, home to one of the largest Indian American populations in this country, I believe that Ambassador Verma’s unique perspective as an Indian American will allow him to better appreciate the intricacies and nuances of our critical partnership with the Indian government. I look forward to seeing the great work that this supremely qualified diplomat will do.”

Congressman Joseph Crowley (NY-14), Co-Chair of Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans:

“I’m thrilled the Senate confirmed Richard Verma as our next ambassador to India. Rich is a skilled and accomplished professional who brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise. He is fully committed to strengthening U.S.-India ties, and I look forward to continuing to work with Rich as we move this important relationship forward.”

Congressman Ami Bera (CA-07):

“Congratulations to the new American Ambassador to India, Richard Verma! Richard’s years of experience as a high ranking official with the U.S. Department of State, as an advisor in both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives, and in the U.S. Air Force make him an excellent choice for this important role. I have worked with him personally and know he is committed to growing the partnership between India and the U.S. at this critical moment in our relationship, and I look forward to working with him.”

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02):

“The relationship between the United States and India is of critical importance. Mr. Verma will be representing our nation as he grows the friendships between our two countries, and advancing our shared interests, as we work together to pursue peace, stability, and economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region, and address a wide range of global challenges.”

Congressman Charles B. Rangel (NY-13):

“I applaud Richard Rahul Verma’s confirmation as the new U.S. Ambassador to India. This nomination represents a momentous step in our relationship with India, but also represents an important milestone our country has made to support diversity at the highest levels of our diplomatic corps.”

Background:

Richard Rahul Verma currently serves as Senior Counselor at Steptoe & Johnson LLP and the Albright Stonebridge Group. Mr. Verma is also a Senior National Security Fellow at the Center for American Progress. Previously, he was Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs at the Department of State from 2009 to 2011 and Partner at Steptoe and Johnson LLP from 2007 to 2009. He was Senior National Security Advisor, Counsel and Foreign Policy Advisor to the Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid from 2002 to 2007, and an Associate at Steptoe & Johnson from 1998 to 2002. Mr. Verma served on active duty in the U.S. Air Force from 1994 to 1998 and received, among other decorations, the Meritorious Service Medal and Air Force Commendation Medal. Earlier in his career, Mr. Verma was a Field Representative for the National Democratic Institute in Eastern Europe and worked in the House of Representatives for Congressman John P. Murtha. Mr. Verma served on the Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism in 2008 and has been a member of the Secretary of State’s Foreign Affairs Policy Board. He currently serves on the boards of Human Rights First, the Clinton Foundation, and the National Democratic Institute. Mr. Verma received a B.S. from Lehigh University, a J.D. from American University, and an L.L.M. from Georgetown University Law Center.

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The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and Members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994.