WASHINGTON: Indian-American Congresswoman
Pramila Jayapal has figured in the
Politico's Power List for the year 2018, for having assumed the mantle of a House 'leader of resistance'.
Jayapal, 52, ranked fifth on 18 is the only Indian- American to figure in the Politico's power list.
"18 to watch in 2018 highlights politicians, activists and operatives across the country who are poised to have a big year in 2018.
Jayapal, a fast-rising democratic star and determined critic of President
Donald Trump, has assumed the mantle of a House "leader of the resistance." the magazine said.
"From her spot as first vice chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, she has worked as a relentless advocate of civil rights and immigration reform on Capitol Hill," said her friend and fellow freshman House member Republican Ro Khanna.
Among her most recent drives include, a legislative push back against Trump threats to end Temporary Protected Status for thousands of Haitians and Salvadorans by allowing them to apply for permanent residency if they can prove they would face extreme hardship if they return to their home countries.
"She is a ground breaker," said Democracy for America's,
Robert Cruickshank, who is also one of Jayapal's constituents.
"She's really positioned herself to be an essential player in the future of the Democratic Caucus in the House. With determination, steely drive and some well-placed tweets,
Jayapal has "taken a deliberate approach to get there," he said.
Politico heavily praised Jayapal, the first Indian-American woman to serve in the US House of Representatives and said that she has rarely backed down from a challenge.