"I think immigrant participation in the political process is sorely needed, and we need to make sure that those who make laws at every level are aware of how these may affect the immigrant population. We need to raise public awareness about the treatment and policies affecting those fleeing from their countries because of dire circumstances, and a great way to do so is by being in a position to change these policies. Second Generation's work though supporting candidates is thus truly important." - Ashwini Udgaonkar
ENDORSED FOR Marple township commissioner, Delaware County
Ashwini is an experienced attorney, a mother, a wife, and an Indian immigrant.
Ashwini has lived in Marple for nearly 30 years. Her husband is also an Indian immigrant. As a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania, Ashwini has served her community through pro bono work for Legal Aid of Delaware County to help women get Protection from Abuse Orders, and has worked with the Villanova Law School Clinic for Asylum by representing clients in their applications for Asylum.
In addition to her legal work, Ashwini has a Master’s in Economics with a concentration in Public Finance. She employs this experience is her role on board of trustees of the local public library and serves on its finance committee. Ashwini wants to ensure that Marple township adequately manages its finances and plans well for the future. If elected, she hopes to encourage environmentally sound practices and to have an input into budgetary decisions.
During the nearly 30 years Ashwini has called Marple home, all 7 commissioners have been white men. Although the township is largely white and still maintains a Republican majority, it is also home to a diverse population with different points of view that have not been represented in local government. Many voters still register as Republicans because they feel it necessary to receive representative access and basic services, such as permits. Additionally, all public officials are appointed by commissioners which further reinforces Republican party loyalty in local government. Even the high school football coach utilizes his players for political ends by having them stuff envelopes, hand out flyers, and work as election day greeters. Ashwini wants to break this cycle of indoctrination.
Despite the political pressure of local government, Marple has seen steady growth among its Democratic base in recent years. Ashwini feels now is the time for new perspectives in Marple Township. Perhaps chief among her reasons for running is her concern with how pubic officials in her township have publicly criticized the Black Lives Matter movement and more recently, "wokeness." She condemns such hateful rhetoric and worries about the severe consequences it will have in her community if left unchecked.
Ashwini previously received our endorsement in her 2021 run for Magisterial Judge in Delaware County, however she came up just short — losing by only six votes after many mail-in ballots went uncounted. However, she has not been dissuaded in her endeavor to serve her community. Ashwini has worked closely with local leaders to help get out the vote over the last two election cylces, and last year she helped to elect the first Democratic majority in the Pennsylvania State House in nearly a decade. Ashwini is confident she can succeed this time around by continuing this important work and personally engaging with voters in Marple Township.
As a Commissioner, Ashwini will prioritize:
Budget Allocation — More than 50% of their budget is on police, and Ashwini thinks Marple Township needs to re-examine their priorities to see where to best spend their tax dollars.
Environment — Delaware County already provides grant money for various environmental projects, such as tree planting. As a volunteer with the Marple Tree Commission, Ashwini is frustrated by the often indiscriminate tree-cutting as well as neglect of trees in their parks. As Commissioner, she would work with county officials to better coordinate and improve park maintenance.
Transparency — Ashwini would like more communication between the citizens and their commissioners. Very few citizens currently attend meetings because community input is discouraged. As Commissioner, she will open up channels of communication (email, newsletters, etc) to ensure that the citizenry are able to better engage with their elected leaders.