Greenvale, NY: Karen Bhatia officially announced her candidacy today for Nassau County Legislator in District 18.
Bhatia, a lawyer, innovation leader, and proud South Asian American and Latina, announced her candidacy during Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month—a fitting moment, as she seeks to make history as the first AAPI elected to serve in the Nassau County Legislature.
Bhatia is calling for a renewed commitment to unity, affordability, and forward-looking governance, presenting herself as a problem-solver focused on real results over partisan politics.
“I’m not a career politician,” Bhatia said. “For more than 20 years, I’ve worked to help small businesses thrive, prepare our workforce for the future, and make government more efficient and responsive. I’m running because it’s time to rebuild trust in local government and deliver real solutions that help every family in Nassau County succeed.”
Launched under the banner Serving People, Not Politics, Bhatia’s campaign seeks to meet growing demands for transparency, accountability, and practical leadership throughout communities in District 18—including Oyster Bay, Bayville, Roslyn, Syosset, East Hills, and surrounding areas.
“One neighbor told me her greatest fear isn’t just rising costs or public safety—it’s the sense of division creeping into our neighborhoods,” Bhatia said. “But we’re not powerless. Real change starts here, in our towns and neighborhoods, with leaders who listen and act.”
A Vision Grounded in Practical Solutions
Bhatia’s platform includes a comprehensive policy agenda designed to address pressing local challenges and prepare Nassau County for long-term prosperity:
- Lowering the Cost of Living by reforming the property tax assessment system, reducing hidden fees, and advocating for seniors and working families.
- Enhancing Public Safety by supporting first responders, investing in safer roads, and expanding community-based crime prevention and youth engagement programs.
- Modernizing County Government through greater transparency and the integration of digital tools that make public services more accessible and efficient.
- Driving Economic Growth by supporting small businesses, advancing workforce development, and preparing the region for growth in sectors like artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
“Residents deserve a County Legislature that prioritizes community over party lines,” she said.
A Track Record of Innovation and Service
Bhatia brings a unique background to the race. A professor at Stanford University specializing in innovation policy, she is also a licensed attorney and former public servant with extensive experience in cross-sector collaboration and economic development.
“This campaign isn’t about left or right—it’s about leadership that’s inclusive, effective, and future-focused,” Bhatia said. “We need a county where families can afford to stay, where our kids see opportunity, and where government leads with purpose and reflects the values of service and possibility.”
To further connect with voters, the campaign will launch a “Coffee with Karen” series—informal meet-and-greet events designed to foster open dialogue and grassroots engagement across the district.
For more information on Karen and her campaign visit www.KarenBhatia.com.
