Priyanka Gandhi To Contest Wayanad Bypoll, Making Electoral Debut

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra is set to make her electoral debut from the Wayanad Lok Sabha seat, as the Election Commission (EC) announced a bypoll for the Kerala constituency on 13 November.

This comes after her brother Rahul Gandhi vacated the seat, opting to retain Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh. If elected, Priyanka will mark her first entry into Parliament, joining her brother Rahul and mother Sonia Gandhi, marking the first time all three Gandhi family members would serve as MPs together.

Priyanka Gandhi’s candidacy has been met with enthusiasm within the Congress ranks. She has expressed confidence and commitment to serving the Wayanad constituency, stating, “I will not let them feel Rahul’s absence.” Her campaign is expected to focus on continuing Rahul's work in the constituency while further strengthening Congress’ presence.

Priyanka’s rise in Congress has been marked by her role as a strategist and star campaigner in recent elections, including the 2024 general election, where she played a pivotal role in improving Congress’ tally to 99 seats. Her entry into electoral politics is seen as a significant move, with her influence and mass appeal expected to impact both the Wayanad campaign and upcoming state elections in Jharkhand and Maharashtra.

Her political debut comes at a time when the Congress is aiming to bounce back from recent setbacks, including a loss in Haryana, and is expected to bolster the party's position in both state and national politics.