The civic interview series Vote Like A Texan featured Abhiram Garapati, a candidate for Texas Congressional District 31, in a conversation exploring policy priorities including fiscal responsibility, immigration reform, and technological readiness. Hosted by Justin McKenzie, the series aims to increase voter awareness through substantive dialogue with candidates ahead of primary elections.
Garapati shared his personal journey of immigrating to the United States legally over 15 years before becoming a citizen, building successful businesses and agricultural operations in Central Texas. This experience informs his congressional campaign, which he is conducting without accepting a salary or campaign donations, citing a desire to serve based on his belief in American opportunity.
The discussion addressed border security and immigration reform, with Garapati emphasizing respect for the rule of law while advocating for a more efficient and accessible legal immigration system. As a farmer and rancher raising cattle in Central Texas, he highlighted challenges facing rural communities, including infrastructure needs and support for volunteer fire departments in fast-growing Hill Country counties.
Education and workforce readiness emerged as central themes, particularly the need for stronger STEM education and preparation for artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Garapati argued that Texas' economic future depends on equipping students and workers for rapid technological change across industries—from engineering and space to agriculture and manufacturing. This focus on technological adaptation represents a significant policy priority with implications for business competitiveness and workforce development.
The conversation also explored the role of a member of Congress as a bridge between federal resources and local needs, including public safety, infrastructure, and economic development. The episode reinforced the importance of civic participation, especially during primary elections where voter turnout historically remains low. This interview is part of Vote Like A Texan's broader effort to provide Texans with direct access to candidates through long-form conversations. The full episode is available on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@VoteLikeATexan.
For business and technology leaders, Garapati's emphasis on preparing Texas' workforce for AI and emerging technologies signals potential policy directions affecting talent development, innovation ecosystems, and industry adaptation. His background as an entrepreneur and agricultural operator provides practical perspective on how technological change impacts diverse sectors of the Texas economy. The candidate's focus on efficient immigration processes also has implications for technology companies seeking specialized talent through legal immigration channels.
The discussion of rural infrastructure and support for volunteer emergency services highlights the intersection of technology, public safety, and community development in rapidly growing regions. As Texas continues to attract technology companies and investment, these policy considerations around workforce readiness, infrastructure, and immigration will shape the state's competitive position in national and global markets. The interview series provides business leaders with insight into how candidates approach these interconnected issues affecting Texas' economic future.
