Meet Sohaer Rizvi Syed​, Candidate For House of Representatives

WASHINGTON, DC — In addition to voting for president and vice president of the United States in the Nov. 3 general election, voters in Washington, D.C., will choose a delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives; at-large member of the D.C. Council; member of the D.C. Council for wards 2, 4, 7 and 8; U.S. senator; U.S. representative; at-large member of the State Board of Education; member of the State Board of Education for wards 2, 4, 7, and 8; and Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner.

Sohaer Rizvi Syed is a 43-year-old attorney running for election to the U.S. House to represent the District of Columbia as its Shadow Representative.

As part of its coverage of the 2020 election, Patch has asked candidates in select races in D.C. to fill out a questionnaire to describe why they think they're the best person to fill the job they're running for.

Candidate

Sohaer Rizvi Syed

Age (as of Election Day)

43

Office Sought

U.S. Representative

Party Affiliation

Independent

Family

Husband and 3 Children

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

JD

Occupation

Attorney

Campaign website

www.sohaer.com

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

N/A

The single most pressing issue facing the District is lack of representation and voting rights in Congress, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The District is home to over 700,000 people yet we don't have a say in how our hard earned tax dollars are spent. I intend to work on getting Statehood for DC and making sure we are part of a true democracy where every citizens voice matters. No more shadow politics!

Do you support Black Lives Matter and what are your thoughts on the demonstrations held since the death of George Floyd and the shooting of Jacob Blake?

Yes, I believe in Black Lives Matter and the peaceful demonstrations held since the unjustified shooting of George Floyd and Jacob Blake.

What are your thoughts on the campaign to "defund" the police?

I think "Defund the Police" is not the correct term. I think we need Police Reform and we need to establish a different unit for dealing with Mental Health Issues. Especially now during the pandemic the Mental Health Issues have really been highlighted and need to be addressed.

What are your thoughts on the state and national response to the coronavirus pandemic? Do you favor such measures as limiting operation of non-essential businesses or restricting indoor/outdoor dining? And do you favor a nationwide mask mandate?

Yes, I support a nation wide mask mandate and social distancing.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I bring fresh energy and a different perspective. I also have a keen understanding of the legislative and constitutional issues facing us in our fight for Statehood.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

We need to create an awareness of the ongoing fight for D.C Statehood not only locally but also nationwide.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

I believe we need to create a nationwide campaign about the disparity
between the District and other States. When the CARES Act was passed all states were promised aid to help their residents recover from the effects of the pandemic. D.C was only given a quarter of the aid, despite having a population that is larger than two states. Another change I would like to see is preventing Congress from stepping in and superceding D.C. Law. D.C residents should be able to call their representatives and have a say in Congress.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Having worked as a prosecutor in the past, I not only understand the law but also work well under pressure. I have served on different committees some of which have required me to think outside the box. I bring with me my work ethic, team building and leadership qualities.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

Getting Statehood for D.C or making a substantive push in that direction.

Why should voters trust you?

As a proud D.C resident, I am passionate about improving our rights. I am a mother of three and believe in standing up when I see injustice. We cannot have so many disenfranchised residents nor can we continue having Congress needlessly meddling in our laws. I will fight for us and also try to create nationwide support for Statehood.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the use of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

I believe in accountability! I think government spending and subsidies should be well accounted for.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

No

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Dream big and follow up with perseverance and grit!

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I am dreaming big about D.C Statehood and I believe we have what it takes to get to the finish line.