In November 2016, Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) was elected to the U.S.
House of Representatives, the first Indian American woman to serve in
that role. Two years later, the “fast-rising Democratic star and
determined critic of President Donald Trump,” according to
Politico’s Playbook 2017 “Power List,” won reelection with more
votes than any other member of the House. Jayapal, co-chair of the
Congressional Progressive Caucus, proved her progressive bonafides
when she introduced the most comprehensive Medicare-for-all bill to
Congress in February.
Behind the story of
Jayapal’s rise to political prominence lie over two decades of
devoted advocacy on behalf of immigrants and progressive causes—and
years of learning how to turn activism into public policy that serves
all Americans. Use the Power You Have is Jayapal’s account
of the path from sixteen-year-old Indian immigrant to grassroots
activist, state senator, and now progressive powerhouse in
Washington, DC.
Written with passion
and insight, Use the Power You Have offers a wealth of ideas
and inspiration for a new generation of engaged citizens interested
in fighting back and making change, whether in Washington or in their
own communities.