Philadelphia, PA – In a historic victory, Neil Makhija secured the Democratic nomination for Montgomery County Commissioner in Tuesday’s primary election. If elected in November, Makhija will become the first Asian-American to serve on a county board of commissioners in Pennsylvania’s 342-year history. He will also oversee the board of elections in Montgomery County, a crucial role leading up to the 2024 presidential and US Senate elections.
Makhija, a civil rights advocate and election law professor at Penn Law, competed against four candidates and an incumbent Commissioner in the open primary. His comprehensive pro-democracy plan to achieve record turnout in the 2024 elections earned him praise during the campaign. Makhija expressed his gratitude to the voters for placing their faith in his vision to protect democratic principles and values.
The 36-year-old candidate highlighted the importance of protecting voting rights, addressing gun violence, and ensuring that Montgomery County remains a welcoming place for all residents. He ran a positive campaign that inspired a diverse coalition of voters from all corners of the county to turn out and support his candidacy.
As Commissioner, Makhija would oversee a substantial budget of $500 million and manage over 3,000 employees, including those in the elections, courts, district attorney’s office, public health departments, and public infrastructure.
Makhija’s remarkable fundraising efforts, which raised over $1 million in just three months, along with his extensive grassroots operation, contributed to his success. Throughout the campaign, he garnered endorsements from influential figures such as U.S. Senator John Fetterman, former Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell, and the Philadelphia Inquirer. Progressive and labor organizations, including the Working Families Party and SEIU Local 668, also supported his candidacy.
In the general election, Makhija will be joined by incumbent Commissioner Jamila Winder as the two Democratic candidates. They will face Republican candidates Thomas DiBello and Liz Ferry in November.
The vacancies for the Commissioner positions were created by the appointment of former Commission Chair Dr. Valerie Arkoosh to the Shapiro administration and Commissioner Ken Lawrence’s decision not to seek re-election.
With his groundbreaking nomination, Neil Makhija aims to bring his passion for democracy and inclusive governance to the forefront and lead Montgomery County towards a brighter future.
