As the US presidential election approaches, Hindu Americans have become an essential voting bloc for both Republican and Democratic parties, prompting targeted outreach efforts from both campaigns. Recognizing their influence in key battleground states, the campaigns of Republican Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris are actively engaging with Hindu voters.
In a significant outreach initiative, President Joe Biden hosted the largest Diwali celebration in White House history, inviting around 600 prominent Indian Americans from across the country. This event highlights the increasing importance of Hindu American voters, with both parties vying for their support in this competitive election.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, the running mate of Vice President Harris, visited a Hindu temple in Pennsylvania to celebrate Diwali. This marks the first time a vice-presidential candidate has attended a Hindu temple, energizing a large segment of the Hindu community in this crucial battleground state.
On the Republican side, Trump issued a detailed statement on Truth Social and X, addressing recent attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, a topic of great concern for Hindu Americans. He also emphasized his commitment to protecting the rights of the Hindu community both domestically and globally, which was well-received by Hindu voters.
Insiders from both campaigns, who requested anonymity, indicated that these efforts are aimed at securing Hindu votes in battleground states such as Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, and North Carolina. Additionally, mid-level leaders from both campaigns have visited temples and religious sites within the community in the final week of the campaign.
Both campaign insiders remarked that in this closely contested race, “Hindus can be the margin of victory.”