Pulkit Desai Becomes Parsippany’s First Indian American Mayor After Narrow Victory
US Marine veteran and tech professional pledges transparency, smart development, and focus on schools and public safety
Parsippany, NJ, Jan 5: Pulkit Desai, a US Marine veteran and technology professional, was sworn in as mayor of Parsippany, New Jersey, on Saturday, becoming the township’s first Indian American mayor after a razor-thin election win.
Desai, a Democrat, overcame an early lead by Republican incumbent James Barberio after provisional and vote-by-mail ballots were counted. The final tally gave Democrats control of the township council, including two council seats, alongside Desai’s mayoral victory.
Focus on smart development and public services
In his first interview after taking office, Desai outlined priorities for his administration. “Our main priority is to make sure Parsippany is developed in a smart way,” he said. “We want to control overcrowding while encouraging commercial development and bringing businesses in.”
He also emphasized schools, public services, infrastructure, and public safety as central to his governance. “If there is anything for the school or Board of Education, we want to ensure full funding. Transparency and accountability will guide every decision—no backroom deals, nothing hidden,” Desai added.
Historic representation for Indian Americans
Parsippany has a large Indian American population, and Desai acknowledged the significance of his election while committing to treat all residents equally. He described his and council member Diya Patel’s election as a monumental achievement, reflecting the township’s evolving demographics.
Journey from Marine Corps to Mayor’s Office
Desai arrived in the US at a young age, later joining the US Marine Corps, where he served six years including during Desert Storm. He then spent three decades in the technology sector, working from mainframes to cybersecurity.
His entry into politics began over a voting rights dispute as president of a local lake association. “Nobody should have to pay extra money just to vote,” he said, recalling what he described as a poll tax, which motivated him toward civic involvement and ultimately the mayoralty.
Parsippany, Morris County’s largest township, has seen significant demographic shifts in recent years. Local media highlighted the election as historic, noting that Asian Americans now form the township’s largest ethnic group and that Desai and Patel are the first elected leaders of Indian descent
