CHICAGO (Diya TV) — Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi unveiled a sweeping plan aimed at limiting presidential powers and curbing what he called the “abuse of authority” under President Donald Trump. The Illinois Democrat introduced the 17-point “Trump Accountability Plan” as part of his campaign for the U.S. Senate.
Krishnamoorthi’s proposals focus on preventing self-pardons, barring a president from seeking a third term, and restricting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from wearing masks. The plan also seeks to strengthen privacy protections, regulate executive actions, and ensure fair elections.
The congressman described his plan as a modern equivalent of post-Watergate reforms designed to “rein in the presidency.” It proposes constitutional amendments to prevent self-pardons and third terms. Krishnamoorthi also wants presidents, vice presidents, and Cabinet nominees to release five years of tax returns.
His plan includes a ban on stock trading by presidents and senior officials. Violations could result in a clawback of post-presidency benefits. Krishnamoorthi said the measures aim to reduce corruption and restore public trust in government.
In a campaign advertisement, Krishnamoorthi said, “We’ve had some fun with my name, but this election is deadly serious. That’s why we’ve released a detailed plan to take on Trump. Like my name, it’s too long for a 30-second ad. Repeal Trump’s Medicaid cuts that give billionaires another tax break. And stop presidents from abusing power.”
The plan emphasizes privacy and legal protections. It would limit the federal government’s data collection and storage powers. The government would also be banned from pressuring states to share personal data for purposes such as targeting immigrants.
Krishnamoorthi proposes granting anyone facing denaturalization by the Department of Justice the right to a jury trial and legal counsel. He said these steps would ensure that individuals’ rights are protected and government power is checked.
Krishnamoorthi’s plan tackles election fairness. It calls for independent commissions or three-judge panels to oversee state redistricting maps. The plan bans mid-decade redistricting. States that conduct partisan redraws could be denied federal election grants.
These measures take aim at both Trump-backed redistricting efforts in Texas and Illinois Democrats’ 2020 redistricting, supported by Governor JB Pritzker. Krishnamoorthi said fair elections are crucial for democracy and must be protected from political manipulation.
In a letter accompanying the plan, Krishnamoorthi accused Trump of targeting political opponents, violating privacy rights, deporting citizens, and profiting from the presidency. He warned that Trump is “threatening our Constitution by hinting at pursuing a third term.”
The congressman said his proposals would hold presidents accountable and prevent abuse of power. He stressed that limiting executive authority is necessary to protect the rule of law and safeguard democratic institutions.
Krishnamoorthi currently leads in fundraising for the Senate race. He is running for the seat of retiring Sen. Dick Durbin. His competitors include U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton. Kelly has focused on health care access and preventing gun violence. Stratton has emphasized economic equity and reproductive rights.
Krishnamoorthi’s “Trump Accountability Plan” is expected to shape the discussion in the Senate race, drawing attention to issues of presidential accountability, privacy rights, and election fairness. Political observers say the plan may appeal to voters concerned about government overreach and corruption.
