Coalition Condemns Xenophobic Attacks from Overstreet Campaign
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 26, 2025
Contact: media@asianamericanadvocacyfund.org
Atlanta, GA — We, a coalition of progressive organizations, community leaders, and advocates for social justice in Atlanta, unequivocally condemn the recent dissemination of xenophobic, and inflammatory content targeting Rohit Malhotra. This material—circulated via email and a campaign-associated website—represents a deeply troubling and dangerous escalation in political rhetoric.
The emails and website are directly linked to Councilmember Marci Overstreet’s campaign. Records confirm that Fred Hicks, a longtime political operative and consultant for Overstreet, owns the website. At a moment when threats to public safety and democracy are at an all-time high, it is unacceptable for a local campaign to fan these flames in order to disparage candidates who challenge the status quo.
This is not an isolated incident. These actions are part of a broader pattern of dog-whistle politics and othering tactics that have characterized Overstreet’s campaign. Referring to a candidate of color as a “threat to public safety” is not just a smear—it incites fear and potentially violence. It endangers Mr. Malhotra’s personal safety and undermines the democratic process.
The Overstreet campaign’s use of racially charged misinformation is unethical, potentially defamatory, and may constitute a violation of campaign and election laws.
We call for immediate and concrete action:
A public apology from Marci Overstreet and Fred Hicks, along with a full and unqualified acceptance of responsibility.
Disclosure of the full email distribution list to ensure transparency and to investigate potential election interference.
Immediate removal of Fred Hicks from any formal or informal role within the campaign.
“There is a long history of those in power ‘othering’ people who challenge the status quo. It is dangerous, reckless, and deeply irresponsible for seasoned politicians and operatives to stoop to this level in the City Council President’s race. Xenophobic, duplicitous attacks put our communities directly in harm’s way—no matter who does it. Respect the voters by running on the issues, and take responsibility for your actions. Rohit Malhotra is running an honest race with integrity, and we demand the other candidate do the same,” said Britney Whaley, Southeast Regional Director of the Working Families Party.
“When campaigns resort to division, it harms all of us. Xenophobic and dangerous rhetoric doesn’t just target Rohit Malhotra—it puts entire communities at risk by feeding fear and deepening divisions. We refuse to stay silent while our communities are scapegoated. This kind of rhetoric cannot go unchecked—we expect accountability,” said Ashna Khanna, Executive Director of the Asian American Advocacy Fund.
We condemn these xenophobic attacks for what they are: a dangerous assault on our communities, our democracy, and the values Atlanta stands for. The city of Atlanta deserves campaigns grounded in ideas, vision, and accountability—not fear-mongering, racial scapegoating, or personal attacks.
Organizations signed on
Working Families Party
Barred Business Power
Asian American Advocacy Fund
GLAHR Action Network