Thu Sep 19 00:07:00 UTC 2024: ## Indian Americans Emerge as Political Force as Modi Visits US Amidst Tight Presidential Race
With Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi set for a high-profile visit to the US this weekend, the growing political influence of Indian Americans is taking center stage. The upcoming trip comes amidst the heated 2024 presidential race between incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Indian American to run for the highest office, and former President Donald Trump.
Modi’s recent address to the US Congress highlighted the increasing presence of Indian Americans in politics, pointing out the growing “Samosa Caucus” of Indian American lawmakers. This trend is fueled by the community’s high voting rates and active civic engagement, a phenomenon attributed to their democratic roots and high levels of education and wealth.
While Modi enjoys considerable popularity among Hindu Indian Americans, particularly evident in his massive gatherings like the “Howdy Modi” summit, his influence on US elections remains unclear. Indian Americans overwhelmingly favor Democratic candidates, associating the party with the democratic principles of their homeland.
Trump, despite his close ties with Modi, is unlikely to benefit from the Prime Minister’s visit, given his anti-globalization and anti-immigrant stances, which are not well-received by the Indian American community.
The upcoming visit will be a significant test of the political influence of Indian Americans as they navigate the complex dynamics of the US presidential race and the potential implications of Modi’s visit.
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