US: Indian-origin attorney Vivek Malek becomes Missouris treasurer

Indian-origin Vivek Malek, a St. Louis attorney and business owner, has been appointed Missouri's next treasurer. This makes him the first person of colour to hold statewide elected office in Missouri history.

Malek, whose firm specialises in immigration and business law, will take over as treasurer in January to succeed Scott Fitzpatrick, who won the race for state auditor in November. Fitzpatrick is currently treasurer. He claimed that his life and experiences are evidence that "the American dream is alive and well."

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He was born in India before coming to southeast Missouri as an international student.

Malek will oversee the state's finances as treasurer, safeguarding taxpayers from fraud and financial abuse, and managing a number of financial programmes managed by the state. Malek will also serve as the state's chief financial officer.

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