Indian American Candidates Compete in 2026 US Midterm Elections

At least 57 Indian American candidates are competing for elected office in the November 3, 2026, midterm elections. These candidates are running for a wide range of positions, including one U.S. Senate seat, 11 U.S. House seats, three statewide offices, 36 state legislative seats, and six local government positions.

High-profile races include Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican endorsed by Donald Trump, who is running for Governor of Ohio against Democratic nominee Amy Acton. Other notable contests feature Republican Saritha Komatireddy challenging New York Attorney General Letitia James, Democratic candidate Nithya Raman running for Mayor of Los Angeles, and independent Shiva Ayyadurai challenging U.S. Senator Ed Markey in Massachusetts.

While current House members Ro Khanna, Pramila Jayapal, Ami Bera, and Suhas Subramanyam are seeking re-election, the total number of Indian-origin members in the House is expected to decrease from six to four following primary losses by Raja Krishnamoorthi and Shri Thanedar. Aruna Miller is also seeking re-election as Lieutenant Governor of Maryland.

To increase the community's political leverage, the Americans4Hindus Political Action Committee is endorsing both Democratic and Republican candidates who support the Indian diaspora. The broader midterm elections serve as a referendum on Donald Trump's second term, which has been marked by trade wars, inflation, and a prolonged war in Iran.