New York: The Indian American Impact Fund, a grassroots group that helps elect Indian American and South Asian candidates, has endorsed physician Tina Shah for the Democratic nomination for Congress in New Jersey’s 7th district, saying she’s the “right leader at a critical moment for New Jersey and our country.”
A former Obama and Biden administration official, Shah announced on July 1 that she was joining the race to oust two-term Rep. Tom Kean, Jr. (R-Westfield) in the 2026 mid-term election. “As a physician and public health expert, Tina understands the real-life consequences of political decisions,” said Chintan Patel, the group’s executive director. “Tom Kean Jr. just voted for a reckless budget that cuts Medicaid, strips health insurance from millions, and undermines essential care for working families. Combined with rising health disinformation, lives are literally on the line.”
“Indian American Impact has been a national leader in building power for our communities, and I’m deeply honored to have their endorsement,” Shah said.
If she wins, Shah will become the first Indian American to represent New Jersey in the U.S. House of Representatives.
“We need someone with the courage, expertise, and compassion to fight back, and Tina is that leader,” said Patel. “At a time when New Jersey’s South Asian community is growing in strength, it deserves a champion in Congress. Tina Shah is ready to be that historic voice.”
