Pakistani American Ali Sheikhani overcame all odds to win the coveted position of constable in Fort Bend County, Houston, Texas.
It was an interesting contest between the two Pakistani American police officers who enjoy great support and respect among different communities.
The total votes cast in their district 3 was 76,477. Republican Sheikhani received 39,936 votes, or 52.22%, while his Democratic rival, Nabil Shekki, received 36,541 votes, or 47.78%.
There are two factors that played a decisive role in Sheikhani’s favor. First and foremost, he campaigned aggressively to reach the masses.
Luck was on his side when the Democratic candidate from the rival political party, who faced serious charges, chose to remain in the race.
It was Taral Patel of the Democratic Party who ran for county commissioner for the same district. As many expected, he lost the bid and created a ripple effect on the other candidates including Schick.
Of the 75,918 votes cast for county commissioner, Republican candidate Andy Myers received 44,271 votes while Democrat Battle received 30,927 votes.
Taral faced intense pressure to withdraw from the race and pave the way for another Democrat to run in the election. However, he remained adamant. A Democratic leader from the same district said that Sheikhani took full advantage of the toxic environment against Democrats.
Police-elect Shekhani said in his message that he was “grateful beyond words for the amazing support from my friends, family and volunteers who made this trip possible. This win is for all of us! Thank you for believing in me and standing up.” By my side every step of the way.”
He pledged to work tirelessly outside party affiliation and fulfill his campaign promises, which included:
- Adding more patrol officers to neighborhoods.
- Work with the County to fund the tools and resources law enforcement officers need to keep citizens safe.
- Create faster response times to ensure safety.
- Increase school safety by adding patrol officers to school zones.
talk to Geographic NewsSheikhani said he was “ready to serve with integrity, dedication and a promise to bring about positive change.”
Unlike Pakistan, the policeman in the USA is an independent law enforcement agency. Their primary mission is to enforce criminal and civil laws, arrest suspects and conduct their own investigations. However, they can equally submit legal documents such as search warrants or perform duties at polling stations on Election Day.
On the other hand, his democratic rival, Nabil Sheki, is now preparing to run in another election next year. He recently graduated as an attorney and will be sworn in by Rabih Collier. To our reader’s surprise, Rabei is another Pakistani American who will take this oath.