HALTOM CITY, Texas — Members of the Nepali community in Tarrant County and neighboring immigrant communities gathered Friday evening to question candidates in the 2026 U.S. midterm elections, pressing them on issues ranging from health care and public education to climate change, rising electricity costs and the economic pressures facing working families.

The town hall, organized jointly by the Himalayan Democratic Club and Nepali Young Professionals, was held at Indian Kitchen in Haltom City. The event brought together candidates for local, state and federal offices, offering residents an opportunity to hear their positions and raise concerns directly.

Among those attending were Kevin Burge, a candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives in Texas’ 24th Congressional District; Dione Sims, running in the 25th District; Heli Rodriguez Prilliman, a candidate in the 12th District; Lydia Bean, a candidate for Tarrant County clerk; and Cate Brennan, running for the Texas House of Representatives in District 98.

Ambika Sharma, a candidate for Place 2 on the Tarrant Appraisal District Board, a nonpartisan position, and Arthurine Kamphaus, a candidate for judge of the 213th District Court, also attended.

Climate Change and Public Services Dominate Discussion

Anuka Dhakal, co-founder of Nepali Young Professionals, opened the event by asking candidates to explain their campaign platforms, the responsibilities of the offices they seek and their plans to support working families.

The ensuing question-and-answer session brought international concerns into a local political discussion. Participants raised questions about melting glaciers, floods and landslides in Nepal, emphasizing the risks facing ancestral villages and communities connected to families living in Texas.

Federal candidates responded by discussing the importance of clean and renewable energy and the role of congressional policy in addressing environmental challenges.

Public education was another central concern. Attendees expressed alarm over reductions in Texas public education funding and called for stronger financial support for schools and teachers.

Health care access also drew attention. Participants questioned the state’s failure to expand Medicaid and the consequences for residents who lack affordable health insurance.

Other questions focused on rising electricity bills amid growing demand from data centers and the financial impact of tax incentives for large corporations on ordinary households.