The Indian American Impact Fund has formally endorsed U.S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi in his newly launched campaign for the United States Senate. Praising him as a “principled, visionary” leader, the organization highlighted his strong advocacy for working families, national security, and inclusive governance. The endorsement marks an important early show of support for Krishnamoorthi, signaling momentum as he embarks on what is expected to be a high-profile and competitive race.
Krishnamoorthi, who officially announced his Senate candidacy this week, currently serves as the U.S. Representative for Illinois’s 8th Congressional District. If elected, he would make history as the first South Asian American Senator from Illinois and the only South Asian American presently serving in the U.S. Senate.
“Raja Krishnamoorthi represents the very best of public service—principled, visionary, and deeply committed to building a more just and prosperous America,” said Chintan Patel, Executive Director of the Indian American Impact Fund. “We are all in. Impact is proud to stand with Raja, and we will do everything in our power to send him to the Senate.”
Krishnamoorthi has earned respect across party lines for his deep knowledge of public policy and his bipartisan approach to legislation. In his current role as Ranking Member of the House Select Committee on the Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party, he has received national attention for his leadership on matters of foreign policy, technology, and economic competitiveness. His Senate campaign will likely emphasize these strengths while also spotlighting his commitment to domestic priorities.
The Indian American Impact Fund’s endorsement cited Krishnamoorthi’s track record on issues central to working families, including improving education, generating jobs, and supporting small businesses. The Fund is known for its efforts to increase South Asian political engagement and influence in the United States. It has previously backed Krishnamoorthi in his congressional races, providing grassroots organizing support and boosting voter turnout throughout Illinois.
“For years, we’ve worked closely with Congressman Krishnamoorthi to grow our movement and elevate South Asian voices in government,” Patel added. “His Senate candidacy represents a powerful opportunity to further that mission—and to send a champion for justice, equity, and integrity to Washington.”
In acknowledging the endorsement, Krishnamoorthi reflected on both the historical significance of his Senate bid and the broader implications for immigrant communities and the health of American democracy.
“As a proud Indian American immigrant and member of the ‘Samosa Caucus,’ I know firsthand how crucial it is to expand South Asian and broader AANHPI representation at every level of government,” Krishnamoorthi said. “I am honored to have the support of the Indian American Impact Fund and am incredibly grateful for their partnership. Right now, there are no South Asian Americans in the entire United States Senate—my election will change that.”
This backing comes amid continuing concerns about the limited representation of Asian Americans in senior roles within the federal government, despite the growing political clout and population size of the community. The Indian American Impact Fund’s endorsement of Krishnamoorthi signals a wider effort to energize South Asian American voters across the country, many of whom are expected to play a pivotal role in determining the outcome of the 2026 Senate race in Illinois.
Krishnamoorthi’s campaign strategy is expected to center not just on his legislative accomplishments, but also on his personal journey as the son of Indian immigrants who rose to become a national policymaker. His platform will likely feature key issues such as economic growth, public education, healthcare access, and the protection of democratic institutions.
The support of the Indian American Impact Fund, a group dedicated to expanding South Asian influence in American politics, represents a significant asset as Krishnamoorthi enters a new stage of his campaign. With this endorsement, his campaign will focus on expanding its reach through intensified fundraising, coalition-building efforts, and voter outreach programs.
The 2026 U.S. Senate election in Illinois is shaping up to be one of the most watched and consequential races in the nation. Krishnamoorthi is positioning himself as a candidate who combines seasoned experience with the potential to break historical barriers, bringing both pragmatic policy insight and a unique voice to the Senate chamber.
As the race unfolds, Krishnamoorthi will continue to rely on the strength of his political network, his policy credentials, and the growing enthusiasm within the South Asian American community. The Impact Fund’s early support gives his campaign a robust platform to build upon as he seeks to make history and advocate for a more inclusive and representative federal government.