Indian American group backs Tina Shah for Congress

The Indian American Impact Fund, a grassroots group that helps elect left-of-center 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. Shah raised $260,000 on her first day as a congressional candidate.

“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.”

Shah is one of five announced candidates in the race and is preparing to face former U.S. Navy helicopter pilot Rebecca Bennett, former Biden administration official Michael Roth, businessman Brian Varella, and former Summit Councilman Greg Vartan in the Democratic primary next June.

“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.”