By: Dr. Avi Verma

It was a dynamic and impactful week for Illinois Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, who made national headlines with major announcements and strong stances on key issues shaping the political and cultural landscape.

In a highly anticipated move, Congressman Krishnamoorthi officially announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Senator Dick Durbin, who recently declared he would not seek re-election. Praising Senator Durbin for his decades of distinguished service to Illinois and the nation, Krishnamoorthi positioned his campaign as a continuation of a legacy rooted in public service and principled leadership.

“This Senate seat is more than just a political position—it is a platform to fight for working families, safeguard democracy, and ensure justice for all,” said Krishnamoorthi in his announcement. “I am committed to bringing fresh energy and strong experience to represent Illinois with integrity and purpose.”

The Democratic primary for the coveted seat is expected to be competitive, with other notable candidates reportedly entering the race, including Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, and Congresswoman Robin Kelly.

Battling a harmful budget and defending working families

On Thursday, Krishnamoorthi also raised alarm over the House Republicans’ narrowly passed budget, calling out its devastating cuts to essential services. Despite his bipartisan efforts to stop it, the budget—backed by former President Trump—slashes over a trillion dollars from programs like Medicaid, Medicare, and SNAP, in order to fund $4 trillion in tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans.

“In Illinois alone, 1.7 million people rely on SNAP and more than 3.4 million depend on Medicaid. Nationwide, this bill threatens to strip health coverage from 14 million Americans,” he warned.

Krishnamoorthi shared his personal story to underline what’s at stake. As a child, his family depended on SNAP and public housing to survive after his father lost his job. Thanks to those supports, his father became an engineering professor, his brother a doctor, and Krishnamoorthi found his path to public service.

“These programs don’t create dependency; they create opportunity,” he said. “I will not stop fighting to protect the lifelines that gave my family, and so many others, the chance to achieve the American Dream.”

Advocating for religious representation

Earlier in the week, Krishnamoorthi also spoke out forcefully against the lack of representation for key faith communities on the Trump Administration’s newly announced Religious Liberty Commission advisory board. The commission notably excluded members from Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist traditions—faiths practiced by millions of Americans.

“If this Commission is truly committed to advancing religious freedom, then a broader range of American faith traditions deserve a seat at the table,” said Krishnamoorthi. “Their absence from this panel undermines the very principle of pluralism it purports to uphold.”

Condemning violence and standing with the Jewish community

Krishnamoorthi also issued a heartfelt statement following the tragic shooting at the Capital Jewish Museum, which claimed the lives of two Israeli embassy staff members.

“I am heartbroken and outraged by the horrific violence that took place,” said the Congressman. “In this time of grief, I stand in solidarity with the Jewish community in Washington and across the country. No one should ever have to fear for their safety while gathering in a space of culture, memory, and reflection.”

He emphasized that antisemitism must be confronted with zero tolerance and reaffirmed his commitment to protecting all communities from violence and hate.

Celebrating a historic first for the Catholic Church

Rounding out the week, Krishnamoorthi congratulated Cardinal Robert F. Prevost of Chicago on his election as Pope Leo XIV, marking the first time an American has ascended to the papacy.

“This is a deeply historic and emotional moment,” Krishnamoorthi remarked. “His Holiness has long demonstrated the values of faith, service, and humility, and his leadership will be a source of inspiration not only for Catholics, but for all people of faith and goodwill.”

With a Senate run underway, a personal stake in social programs, and a steady voice on matters of inclusion, safety, and global leadership, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi continues to solidify his role as a prominent national leader and a dedicated representative of Illinois.