As the 2024 US Presidential Election approaches, Indian American voters appear to be reconsidering their loyalties. With a recent poll indicating a noticeable shift towards Donald Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris is actively working to strengthen her appeal to the community by highlighting her Indian roots.
Kamala Harris Honors Her Mother’s Journey
My mother, Dr. Shyamala Gopalan Harris, came to the United States from India alone at the age of 19. Her courage and determination made me who I am today. pic.twitter.com/nGZtvz2Php
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) November 2, 2024
In a heartfelt post on X, Harris shared her mother’s journey from India, stating, “My mother, Dr. Shyamala Gopalan Harris, came to the United States from India alone at the age of 19. Her courage and determination made me who I am today.” This message aims to resonate with Indian American voters by emphasizing shared immigrant values. Harris’s mother, Shyamala, a biologist of Tamil origin, raised Harris in California, instilling cultural pride and resilience. Harris hopes that by celebrating her mother’s legacy, she can reconnect with a community that has been instrumental in Democratic support in past elections.
Indian American Political Shifts and Poll Insights
The recent Indian American Attitude Survey (IAAS) reveals a dip in the community’s support for Democrats. While 61% of registered Indian American voters remain inclined toward the Democratic ticket, a significant 32% now support Trump—a marked increase. Independent identification among Indian Americans has also risen, indicating a potential shift in future elections. Indian American Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi expressed optimism, stating, “Kamala will ultimately prevail,” though he acknowledged that swing states will determine the final outcome.
Trump’s Outreach to Hindu and Indian American Voters
Donald Trump has been proactive in his approach to gain Indian American support. Earlier this month, he addressed Hindu Americans directly, vowing to protect them from what he describes as the “anti-religion agenda of the radical left.” Trump underscored his commitment to strengthen relations with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom he described as “a good friend,” assuring voters of his dedication to US-India ties.
I strongly condemn the barbaric violence against Hindus, Christians, and other minorities who are getting attacked and looted by mobs in Bangladesh, which remains in a total state of chaos.
It would have never happened on my watch. Kamala and Joe have ignored Hindus across the…
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 31, 2024
Sharing his message on X, Trump stated, “We will also protect Hindu Americans against the anti-religion agenda of the radical left. We will fight for your freedom.” He further criticized the Biden-Harris administration, claiming they have neglected global Hindu concerns and pledging that his administration would work to restore America’s standing.
Community Concerns: Why Some Indian Americans Are Leaning Toward Trump
For some Indian Americans, including businessman Ashok Baddi, Harris’s Indian heritage does not factor heavily into their voting choice. Baddi, who is supporting Trump, commented, “She has never connected with the community.” He emphasized the economic challenges facing Indian Americans under the Biden-Harris administration, such as rising costs of essential goods.
Similarly, Kamal Rahman, a Bangladeshi-American advisor to the mayor of Hamtramck, Michigan, noted that concerns over economic policies and Trump’s stance on LGBTQ issues are driving a portion of Michigan’s Muslim Americans to back Trump, despite traditionally supporting Democrats.
Trump’s Broader Outreach to Muslim and Arab Communities
Beyond Indian Americans, Trump has extended his campaign efforts to Muslim and Arab communities, recognizing Michigan’s strategic importance. He recently visited Detroit to engage with local Muslim and Arab leaders, emphasizing a need to address economic concerns and social issues important to these communities.
As election night nears, Trump plans a final rally in Michigan’s Grand Rapids, underscoring his determination to win support across diverse communities.