Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has emerged as the clear frontrunner in the Illinois U.S. Senate Democratic primary, with unmatched name recognition and a decisive lead over his closest competitors, according to a new poll.
The survey of likely Democratic primary voters released by Impact Fund, the affiliated PAC of Indian American Impact, shows Krishnamoorthi as the most widely known candidate, with 88% name recognition statewide.
READ: Illinois Tech Indian American students aim for $1 million Hult Prize (April 15, 2025)
In a three-way matchup against Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton and Congresswoman Robin Kelly, Krishnamoorthi with 38% holds a 21-point lead over his nearest rival Stratton at 17%. Kelly polled 7% and Undecided 37%.
When undecided voters are asked to choose in a three-way matchup, Krishnamoorthi breaks above 50% support—cementing his majority backing among Democratic voters.
“From day one, Impact has believed in Raja’s leadership- we were amongst his first national supporters- and this poll shows Illinois voters share that confidence,” said Chintan Patel, Executive Director of The Impact Fund.
“Raja’s laser-sharp focus on protecting access to Social Security and Medicare, lowering health care costs, and tackling the rising cost of living is clearly resonating across the state. At a time when so many fundamental rights are at stake and middle-class families are struggling, his record of delivering results is exactly what Illinois needs in the U.S. Senate.”
READ: Jigar Shah gets alumni award from Illinois University engineering college (March 21, 2025)
For the poll, Z to A Research surveyed 615 likely 2026 Illinois Democratic primary voters from August 8-10. The margin of error is ±3.952%.
Since its inception in 2016, The Impact Fund has endorsed and supported 200+ candidates across the country, contributing to the historic rise of Indian and South Asian American representation in politics, according to a media release.
Through strategic investments and grassroots organizing, Impact has marshaled upwards of $20 million to candidates and robust voter mobilization and policy advocacy efforts, amplifying the voices of South Asian Americans and driving positive change in communities nationwide, it said.