Ethan Agarwal, a Silicon Valley entrepreneur, is speaking out in support of the Iranians. Agarwal, who is running for Congress in California’s 17th District as a challenger to Ro Khanna in Democratic primary, urged President Donald Trump to reconsider his immigration ban on Iran as that would force thousands of Iranian students who will be graduating in May this year out of the U.S.
“These are young people who want to contribute to America; who are in school at places like Berkeley, Santa Clara University, and Stanford. Without lifting the pause, they will have to return to Iran in 60 days. We want these young, brilliant people staying and working in America, paying taxes in America and creating jobs here,” Agarwal wrote.
“While USCIS figures out the broader timing and implications of lifting the pause against affected immigrants, we request that the pause for students graduating in 2026 specifically be lifted,” he added.
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These students, who would now be on F-1 visas, will not be able to enroll for OPT, STEM OPT or H-1B visa programs as the U.S. has paused all immigration processing for Iran unless the pause is lifted.
Who is Ethan Agarwal, the Democrat running against Ro Khanna?
Ethan Agarwal is a 40-year-old Silicon Valley tech entrepreneur and Democratic candidate running in the 2026 primary for California’s 17th Congressional District against incumbent Rep. Ro Khanna. Agarwal has previously explored a long-shot bid for California governor before focusing on the House race.
He is known in business circles for founding and investing in technology startups.
In his campaign messaging, Agarwal positions himself as a moderate alternative within the Democratic Party, emphasizing economic growth and local focus over national political battles.
The June 2, 2026 primary will determine whether Agarwal or Khanna secures the Democratic nomination for the general election.
Agarwal’s public support for Iranian students highlights a strategy of appealing to immigrant and international communities within California’s 17th Congressional District, which includes tech hubs and university populations. By advocating for the lifting of immigration pauses and emphasizing the contributions of highly educated young people, Agarwal positions himself as a candidate attentive to global talent, economic innovation, and humanitarian concerns. This approach may resonate with voters who prioritize diversity, education, and the role of skilled immigrants in driving local economic growth, though it is uncertain how much it will sway the broader electorate.
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The focus on F-1 visa holders and STEM graduates could help Agarwal cultivate strong support among students, university faculty, and tech professionals, groups that have historically influenced voter turnout in Silicon Valley districts. However, it is unclear whether this issue will mobilize enough voters to challenge a well-established incumbent like Ro Khanna, whose base may already be deeply entrenched.
Taking a public stance on immigration also carries political risk; opponents could portray Agarwal’s advocacy as too narrowly focused or question his experience in broader policy areas. The overall impact on his campaign will likely depend on how effectively he balances this position with broader economic, infrastructure, and social issues important to the district.
Agarwal’s emphasis on Iranian students supposedly demonstrates his willingness to take principled stands, which could help define his identity as a candidate.