Washington April 26, 2017: Indian-American dentist Surya Dhakar is running for Virginia's House of Delegates' 56th District seat.

Dhakar, a Republican, has put his name in the pool of candidates looking to fill the seat being vacated by Republican Peter Farrell, who is not seeking re-election.

He is up against four fellow Republicans: John McGuire, Graven Craig, George Goodwin and Matt C. Pinsker, apart from two Democratic candidates: Melissa M. Dart and Lizzie Drucker-Basch, the American Bazaar online reported on Wednesday.

NewsGram brings to you current foreign news from all over the world.

Dhakar is married and a resident of Henrico County, Virginia. He has served on the Viriginia Board of Dentistry from 2011 to 2015 and operates a dental clinic in the Glen Allen area.

He also served as President of the Indian Association of Virginia twice. Dhakar's poll promises include lower taxes, improved public schools and lower costs of healthcare services.

NewsGram brings to you top news around the world today.

Dhakar received his Ph.D. in oceanography from the Old Dominion University and his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Virginia Commonwealth University.

The primaries will be held on June 13 and the general election is scheduled for November 7.

Last date to register to vote for the primaries is May 22 and for the general election is October 16.

The 56th district, encompassing Louisa County and parts of Goochland, Henrico and Spotsylvania counties, has been held uncontested by Republicans since 2009. (IANS)