Neil Khot is a first-generation Indian American entrepreneur who built a successful business from the ground up in Illinois. Khot is now a Democratic candidate for Illinois’ 8th Congressional District, seeking to bring his lived experience into public service. 

Drawing on his journey as an immigrant, job creator, and community member, Khot in an exclusive interview with South Asian Herald outlines his motivations for running, the core priorities of his campaign, and his vision for restoring economic opportunity and the American Dream for working families across the district.

As a first-generation Indian American and lifelong entrepreneur, what inspired you to run for Congress in Illinois’ 8th District?

As a first-generation immigrant who came to America with very little and built a successful business here from the ground up, I have lived my own version of the American Dream. Today, that dream is falling out of reach for too many working families. In the 8th District, we have seen the loss of major employers such as Motorola, Sears, and AT&T, without being replaced by new engines of growth and employment. My decision to run is based on seeking to bring back well-paying jobs and restoring the American Dream for all.

Could you talk about your personal journey and professional experience that have shaped who you are today?

My journey started in the town of Belgaum, India, where I was raised by a single mother who instilled in me the importance of education and hard work. I came to America in the 1990s with $300 in my pocket and worked hard to build a career. Today, I run a successful business employing over 200 people in our district. My life has been one of grit and dedication. I will bring this dedication to Congress as we navigate a tumultuous economic climate and a period of international uncertainty.

What are the key issues at the heart of your campaign, and why are they important to you and the residents of the 8th District?

My top priority is bringing back well-paying jobs to the 8th District and increasing opportunities for all Americans. While our economy continues to grow, that growth is concentrated in a select few areas and among the very richest in our society. I will vote to increase investments in education and infrastructure to ensure that we have more well-paying jobs available for all Americans.

Healthcare affordability is another top priority of my campaign. To reduce the cost of healthcare in America, I believe in a greater focus on prevention programs, expanding residency slots, and reducing drug prices by cutting out middlemen. I also believe that a fair and secure immigration system is part of the American identity and is critical to maintaining our nation’s economic strength. The system that I came under has gotten significantly slower over the preceding decades. It is unacceptable to leave families who go through the immigration process in limbo for decades. Our district has immigrant communities from all over the world, and I will seek efficiencies wherever possible to benefit all constituents.

What major challenges have you faced on the campaign trail so far, and how do you plan to navigate or overcome them?

One of our biggest challenges has been reaching all sectors of our incredibly diverse population in the 8th District. To ensure that we reach as many people as possible, we have made significant efforts to canvass door to door, maintain an active presence on social media, and post content in multiple languages whenever possible.

With eight Democrats, including yourself, competing in the March 17 primary, what strategies are you relying on to stand out and earn the support of voters?

We have a large field of candidates in the Democratic primary, and I respect each of them for their commitment to public service. That being said, what sets me apart is my experience as the only candidate who built a life here as a first-generation immigrant and who has created hundreds of jobs in this district. We need leaders with real-world experience in the economy and lived experience as immigrants.

Can you highlight any major endorsements your campaign has received from individuals or organizations, and what they mean to you?

I am proud to be endorsed by individuals and organizations at the local, state, and national levels. Among them are Congressman Shri Thanedar of Michigan, Mayor Tom Dailly of Schaumburg, Alderman David H. Moore of Chicago, international superstar Omi Vaidya, and the bipartisan Americans 4 Hindus PAC. Their vote of confidence has inspired me to give my all for our shared vision for America and prosperity for all Americans.

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