Raj Salwan’s rise from the child of struggling immigrants to a local government official embodies the American Dream. On Tuesday, Nov. 5 he made history with a landslide win in Fremont’s mayoral race, becoming the city’s first Indian American mayor. His victory ignited celebrations across social media, with community members sharing heartfelt messages on platforms like Facebook and X. Now, as the celebrations quiet down, Salwan says he’s ready to get to work, committed to serving the city he’s long called home.
“I think people are feeling disillusioned with government and they’re looking for folks who are going to roll up their sleeves and get things done,” Salwan said as he explained why he believes he was the ideal mayoral candidate.
Prior to joining city council, leading the city of Fremont wasn’t on Salwan’s radar. The mayor-elect had followed in his father’s footsteps and became a veterinarian. Still, he had a heart for public service. Salwan would later join local boards and committees that allowed him to make a difference where he believed it mattered. But it was his appointment as Chairperson for the city’s Human Relations Commission that opened his eyes to the potential he had to improve the city’s issues. From there, he ascended through the ranks of local government, serving as Planning Commissioner before landing his most recent role as a council member.
Now, with the metaphorical key to the city in his hands, Salwan says he wants to make the city more vibrant. In addition to addressing homelessness and public safety, the new mayor has a “downtown vision” for Fremont, and would like to welcome more entertainment and dining options.
“People complain all the time that they have to go to San Francisco to have fun, and it shouldn’t be that way,” Salwan said.
Salwan also said that unity is a core value for him, and believes a sense of togetherness will ultimately make Fremont successful. As one of the most diverse cities in the Bay Area, Fremont has a lot of perspectives to consider as it makes decisions. Whether it’s addressing the housing crisis, improving traffic or making the streets safer at night, he believes the city can only achieve if the people are united.
“I want to make sure this next chapter is something that we can be proud of.”
