119th U.S. Congress Begins With Largest Indian American Representation

Former Virginia Democratic state Sen. Suhas Subramanyam has become the newest member of the Samosa Caucus after the swearing-in of the 119th Congress earlier this month. He joins five other Indian Americans — Reps Ami Bera and Ro Khanna of California, Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), and Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.). 

Subramanyam posted a photo on social media of the Jan. 3 swearing-in. “Had the honor being sworn into Congress last week with my parents, in-laws, wife, and kids by my side,” he wrote. “It was a really special moment, and I’m filling really big shoes left by the incredible Rep. Jennifer Wexton. Thank you to all the friends, family, and neighbors who helped make this possible.”

Bera celebrated the largest Indian American representation in the U.S. Congress and looked forward to  welcoming more from the community in the future. “When I was first sworn in twelve years ago, I was the sole Indian American Member of Congress and only the third in U.S. history,” he wrote. “Now, our coalition is six strong! I am excited to welcome even more Indian Americans to the halls of Congress in the years to come!”

Krishnamoorthi began the first day of the 119th Congress by reading a passage from the Bhagavad Gita at the Bipartisan Interfaith Prayer Service. ‘The purpose of the bipartisan service is to bless the new Congress before it is officially constituted for another two-year,” according to a press release issued from the congressman’s office. He was the only speaker to represent the Hindu faith. “Years ago, Hindu Americans were not included at prayer services in our nation’s capital,” Krishnamoorthi said. I’m grateful that we now have a seat at the table and that I can play a part in spreading the beautiful blessings of the Hindu faith to my colleagues, both Republican and Democrat. Together we prayed for peace and prosperity, and in doing so are better equipped to tackle our nation’s toughest challenges ahead.”

See Also

A Vegetarian at a Butcher Shop: J.D. Vance Takes Wife Usha to a Meat Shop During Campaign Stop

Japayal, who was wearing a green jacket “made from one of my favorite Indian Saris,” posted a video on X. Earlier today, I was sworn in to the 119th Congress wearing a jacket made from one of my favorite Indian Saris. It reminds me that I’m an immigrant, the only South Asian American woman to ever serve in the House, & that I’ll work every day to preserve the American Dream for all.”