Suraj Budathoki

Suraj Budathoki is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, representing the Hillsborough 40th district. His journey from a refugee in Nepal to a state legislator in the United States reflects his commitment to community service and advocacy for marginalized groups, particularly Bhutanese refugees. Budathoki's background and professional experiences have shaped his approach to public service and policy-making.

Early life and career

Suraj Budathoki was born in Samrang, Bhutan, and belongs to the Lhotshampa ethnic group. His early life was marked by significant challenges, as he and his family fled Bhutan due to political persecution and ethnic cleansing targeting their community. This forced migration led them to spend 19 years in a refugee camp in Nepal, where they lived under difficult conditions. In 2009, Budathoki and his family resettled in the United States as refugees, seeking safety and new opportunities.

Budathoki pursued higher education after arriving in the U.S. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern New Hampshire University in 2015, followed by a Master of Arts from Norwich University in 2018. His academic pursuits reflect a dedication to personal and professional development, and he is currently a PhD candidate at Saybrook University, where he continues to expand his knowledge and expertise.

In addition to his academic achievements, Budathoki has built a career as a business executive. His professional background includes various roles that have equipped him with skills in leadership and management. Alongside his wife, Ganga, he co-founded Building Community in New Hampshire, an organization formerly known as the Bhutanese Community of New Hampshire. This organization focuses on refugee resettlement, economic development, and civic integration programs aimed at supporting immigrant populations in the state. Through this work, Budathoki has played a vital role in helping newcomers navigate the challenges of settling in a new country.

Budathoki's engagement in political activities began to take shape during the 2016 presidential election cycle when he served as the deputy political director for Bernie Sanders’ campaign in New Hampshire. This experience provided him with insights into the political process and the importance of grassroots organizing. His commitment to advocacy continued with the founding of Peace Initiative Bhutan (PIB) in 2019, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the rights of Bhutanese refugees and advocating for congressional action on human rights issues in Bhutan.

Legislative service

In 2024, Suraj Budathoki was elected to the New Hampshire House of Representatives, marking a significant milestone in his political career. His election is notable as he became the first Bhutanese American to serve in a state legislature, reflecting a growing representation of diverse communities in American politics. As a member of the New Hampshire House, Budathoki has the opportunity to influence legislation and address the needs of his constituents in the Hillsborough 40th district.

Budathoki's legislative service is characterized by his commitment to advocating for the rights and needs of marginalized communities, particularly those with refugee backgrounds. His experiences as a refugee and his work within the Bhutanese community inform his approach to policy-making. He is likely to focus on issues that impact immigrant populations, including access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

His role in the legislature allows him to engage with various stakeholders, including community organizations, advocacy groups, and fellow lawmakers, to address pressing issues facing his district. Budathoki's background in community organizing and nonprofit work positions him to be an effective advocate for policies that promote social justice and equity.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, Suraj Budathoki represents the Hillsborough 40th district, which encompasses a diverse population with varying needs and concerns. His policy focus is likely shaped by his personal experiences and his commitment to supporting immigrant and refugee communities. Given his background, he may prioritize legislation that addresses social equity, economic development, and access to essential services for all residents.

Budathoki's work with Building Community in New Hampshire and Peace Initiative Bhutan underscores his dedication to fostering inclusive policies that benefit both new arrivals and established residents. He is expected to advocate for initiatives that enhance civic engagement among immigrant populations, ensuring that they have a voice in the political process and access to resources that facilitate their integration into society.

In addition to immigrant and refugee issues, Budathoki may also engage with broader legislative priorities that impact the state, such as education reform, healthcare access, and economic development. His unique perspective as a member of a historically underrepresented community allows him to contribute to discussions on these critical issues, advocating for policies that reflect the needs of his constituents.

Budathoki's ongoing legislative work will likely involve collaboration with other lawmakers and community leaders to create a more equitable and inclusive New Hampshire. His commitment to public service, informed by his personal journey and professional experiences, positions him as a significant figure in the state's political landscape, particularly in advocating for the rights and needs of marginalized communities. As he continues his service in the New Hampshire House of Representatives, Budathoki's contributions will be closely watched by those interested in the representation of diverse voices in state politics.