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Darshana Patel

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Darshana Patel
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Darshana Ramesh Patel (born 1974) is an American scientist and politician serving as a member of the California State Assembly for the 76th district since 2024.[1] A member of the Democratic Party, she previously served as President of the Poway Unified School District and as a commissioner of the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander Affairs.

Quick Facts Member of the California State Assembly from the 76th district, Preceded by ...
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Early life, education, and career

Patel was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Gujarati parents from India. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in biochemistry with a minor in religious studies from Occidental College and a Ph.D. in biophysics from University of California, Irvine.[2][3][4]

Patel previously worked in oncology research at Genentech, where she researched new methods of cancer treatment and delivering chemotherapy.[5]

California Assembly

Patel was elected to the California State Assembly in 2024, defeating Republican Kristie Bruce-Lane.[6] She is the first Hindu woman to serve in the California State Legislature.[7]

In March 2025, Patel introduced a bill to close a loophole which made threats only illegal if they target specific individuals thus preventing the prosecution of threats made against institutions such as schools, places of worship, or medical facilities.[8] In June, Patel and Ash Kalra's bill to make Diwali a new state public holiday passed the assembly unanimously.[9]

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Personal life

Patel lives in the Rancho Peñasquitos community of San Diego with her husband and three daughters.

Electoral history

More information Primary election, Party ...
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References

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