Ali Sheikhani, a prominent businessman, took over as a police officer in the US state of Texas, becoming the first Pakistani-American Republican to hold this position in Fort Bend County. He represents electoral district 3.
In a grand ceremony, Sheikhani raised his right hand and placed the other on the Holy Quran, wrapped in a green cloth (Juzdan). The family surrounded him as he vowed to fight crime and ensure the town's safety.
A round of applause followed as the young Pakistani American took the oath and said, “I, Ali Sheikhani, do solemnly swear that I will faithfully execute the duties of the office of Police Constable of Fort Bend County in the State of Texas. To the best of my ability, I will preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States and Texas, my community, and the Fort Bend County Precinct 3 office. So help me, God.”
Later, speaking to the media, Sheikhani called it one of the most incredible days of his life. At the same time, the Pakistani-American said: “I am committed to proving myself worthy of this honor and fulfilling the promises I made to the community.”
Sheikhani brings with him a proven record of service as a law enforcement professional committed to responsible leadership. He is an entrepreneur who does not need to make a living from his professional service.
In November 2024, Sheikhani won this seat by defeating Pakistani-American incumbent Democrat Nabil Shike at the polls.
The total votes cast in his Precinct 3 was 76,477. Republican Sheikhani received 39,936 votes (52.22%), while his Democratic rival Nabil Shike received 36,541 votes (47.78%).
Even during the primaries, Sheikhani received 8,917 votes (81.6%) to defeat his party rival Aqeel Virk, who managed only 2,012 votes (18.4%). On the other hand, Shike won the Democratic nomination in a primary runoff with only a very small margin.
Shike received 1,087 votes (55.3%), while his party rival Marion Glenn received 878 votes (44.7%).
Two factors played a crucial role in Sheikhani's favor. First, he carried out a vigorous campaign to reach the masses.
He has also received endorsements from respected organizations and personalities, including the Texas Narcotics Officers Association, Trever Nehis, John Healey, James Patterson, Mike Beard, Chad Norvell, Manu P and Marion Glenn.
Luck was on his side, as Democratic candidate Taral Patel, who faced serious accusations, opted to remain in the race.
Patel ran for county commissioner in the same district and lost the bid, creating a domino effect on other candidates, including Shike.
Of the 75,918 votes cast for county commissioner, Republican incumbent Andy Meyers received 44,271 votes, while Democrat Patel received 30,927 votes.
Patel faced intense pressure to drop out of the race and make way for another Democrat to run in the election. However, he stood his ground. A Democratic leader from the same district said Sheikhani took full advantage of the toxic environment against Democrats.
In his message, Agent-Elect Sheikhani said he was beyond grateful for the incredible support of his friends, family and volunteers who made this trip possible. “This victory is for all of us! Thank you for believing in me and being by my side every step of the way,” he added.
He promised to work tirelessly across party affiliations and deliver on campaign promises that included:
- Add more patrol cars to neighborhoods.
- Work with the county to fund the tools and resources law enforcement officers need to keep citizens safe.
- Create faster response times to ensure security.
- Increase school safety by adding patrol officers to school zone areas.
Speaking to Geo News, Sheikhani said he was ready to serve with integrity, dedication and a promise to bring about positive change.
Unlike Pakistan, a police officer in the United States is an independent police officer. Their main task is to enforce criminal and civil laws, arrest suspects and conduct their own investigations. However, they can also serve legal documents such as court orders or perform duties at polling stations on Election Day.
Sheikhani recently graduated as a lawyer and was sworn in by Rabeea Collier, another Pakistani American.
