Suraj Budathoki was born in Bhutan and experienced significant displacement as a child, eventually becoming a refugee in the United States. He holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Arts, showcasing a strong commitment to education. Budathoki has a background in political campaigning and has demonstrated leadership by co-founding an advocacy organization for Bhutanese refugees. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD while balancing family life and business ownership.

Suraj Budathoki's political identity is shaped by his unique background as a refugee from Bhutan, which informs his advocacy for immigrant rights and economic opportunities. His legislative focus on job creation and small business growth for immigrant populations reveals a highly localized approach to economic policy. Budathoki's unexpected convergence with opposing factions on certain environmental regulations hints at a calculated strategy to protect regional industrial interests. His strong stance on human rights, particularly for Bhutanese refugees, underscores a deeply personal commitment that drives his policy positions.