The son of Indian immigrants, Manan Trivedi grew up in working class Berks County, Pennsylvania. Trivedi went to college and medical school in Boston before embarking on naval career. After serving in Iraq, and working in the Naval Surgeon General’s office, Trivedi returned home to Reading and worked as a primary care physician at the local hospital.
In 2010, Trivedi ran for Congress against incumbent Rep. Jim Gerlach (R) in Pennsylvania’s 6th Congressional District. Running with a PeacePAC endorsement, Tivedi won 43% of the vote in a horrible year for Democrats. Undeterred, he immediately filed papers to run against Gerlach again in 2012. He believes higher Democratic turnout in an election year and a redrawn congressional district can propel him to victory this year.
From 2001 to 2003, Trivedi served as a battalion surgeon in the Marine Corps. His battalion was among the first U.S. ground forces to enter Iraq. Trivedi served on the front lines of battle, commanding a medical team that cared for over 1,200 troops and hundreds of Iraqi civilians and earning multiple decorations.
While Trivedi served with distinction in Iraq, he was never a supporter of the war…
“The invasion of Iraq was unnecessary and immoral. Iraq had nothing to do with 9/11, posed no imminent threat to our nation, and Al-Qaeda did not enter Iraq until after our occupation.”
He is clear-sighted about the threats the U.S. faces in the 21st century:
“The events of 9/11 put in clear focus that there are people intent on harming us. America, along with a coalition of our allies, must ensure that we are doing everything we can to stamp out terrorism. We must be strategic in our actions, accurately pinpoint our resources and do all we can to limit casualties. Moreover, we need to focus on the root of the problem and avoid any diversion of our efforts. As a Congressman, I will propose steps to strengthen our national security and ensure that American is a leader around the world by spreading peace and democracy.”
Rep. Gerlach has criticized Trivedi for these positions, claiming they “trivialize the sacrifices of thousands of our brave military men and women.” Gerlach voted in favor of the invasion of Iraq and has consistently opposed withdrawing U.S. troops from Afghanistan.
This district was a battleground district before redistricting and it remains one after redistricting, with Democrats enjoying a slight advantage. Gerlach maintains an advantage in fundraising but his contributions are not as great as one would expect for a five term incumbent.
Click here to help Manan Trivedi defeat Rep. Jim Gerlach.
Appeal approved by Trivedi for Congress and paid for by Council for a Livable World Candidate Fund. Donations are not tax deductible.
