Raja Krishnamoorthi, a prominent Indian-American Democrat, has once again secured a victory in Illinois’ 8th Congressional District, continuing his influential political career. Re-elected to represent Illinois’ 8th District, Krishnamoorthi has become a notable figure in U.S. politics.
During the presidential campaign, he was a staunch supporter of Vice President Kamala Harris, championing the Harris-Walz ticket. His efforts were particularly focused on increasing voter turnout within the South Asian American community. Krishnamoorthi partnered with the AAPI Victory Fund, engaging in grassroots efforts by visiting places of worship and participating in town halls, notably alongside Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin.
Prominent Leadership Roles
Elected in 2016, Krishnamoorthi now embarks on his fifth term in Congress. As Ranking Member of the Select Committee on Strategic Competition Between the U.S. and Chinese Communist Party, he holds the distinction of being the first South Asian American to lead a Congressional Committee. In addition to his leadership role, he serves on the Intelligence and Oversight Committees, plays a pivotal role in the Equality Caucus, and is Co-Chair of the Immigration Task Force within the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC).
Advocacy For Global Human Rights
Krishnamoorthi’s activism extends beyond U.S. borders. In August, he voiced concern over the rise in violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, calling on U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to take direct action to protect religious minorities and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Born to immigrant parents in Peoria, Illinois, Krishnamoorthi attended Princeton University and later graduated from Harvard Law School. His career includes serving in Illinois’ Public Integrity Unit and advocating for affordable housing and state-level venture capital. He remains committed to supporting the South Asian American community, as well as addressing key issues like youth vaping and solar energy through bipartisan caucuses he founded.
Krishnamoorthi lives in Schaumburg, Illinois, with his wife, Priya, a physician, and their three children. His dedication to public service, both domestically and internationally, highlights his ongoing influence in U.S. politics.