Indian-Americans have long played a crucial role in shaping US-India relations. As a community known for its economic and political influence, their views on both Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Donald Trump matter significantly. While many in the Indian-American diaspora support Modi’s leadership, there is growing concern over how a potential Trump 2024 presidency could impact US-India ties.
In this article, we will explore why Indian-Americans back Modi, the fears surrounding Trump’s return, and what this means for future relations between the two countries.
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Why Do Indian-Americans Support Modi?
Indian-Americans have consistently shown strong support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Here’s why:
1. Economic Reforms & Growth
Modi’s economic policies, such as Make in India, Digital India, and tax reforms, have significantly boosted India’s economy. Many Indian-American business owners appreciate the pro-business environment created by Modi’s administration.
Example: The rise of Indian tech startups and foreign investments from companies like Google and Apple have strengthened India’s global economic position.
2. Nationalism & Global Image
Modi’s leadership has emphasized strong nationalism, aligning with the pride many Indian-Americans feel toward their heritage. Under his leadership, India’s global influence has expanded, from military strength to diplomatic relations with the US, Japan, and Australia.
3. Closer US-India Relations
During Modi’s tenure, US-India relations have reached new heights. Defense deals, strategic partnerships, and technology exchanges have solidified India’s role as a key US ally.
Example: India and the US signed a $3 billion defense agreement in 2020, strengthening security ties.
Why Indian-Americans Are Concerned About Trump’s Return
While many Indian-Americans favor Modi, there is hesitation about Donald Trump’s impact on US-India relations. Here’s why:
1. Trade War & Tariffs
Trump’s administration imposed high tariffs on Indian exports, leading to strained economic ties. If Trump returns in 2024, similar trade policies could harm India’s economy and business relationships.
Example: In 2019, Trump removed India from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), impacting $5.6 billion worth of Indian exports.
2. Immigration Policies & H-1B Visas
Many Indian-Americans work in the tech industry and depend on H-1B visas. Trump’s previous crackdowns on work visas created uncertainty for Indian professionals in the US.
Fact: The Indian-American community makes up 75% of all H-1B visa holders in the US (Source: US Citizenship and Immigration Services).
3. Unpredictability in Foreign Policy
Trump’s America First policy sometimes led to inconsistent diplomatic relations. While he praised Modi, he also criticized India’s trade policies, leading to uncertainty about his true stance on US-India relations.
Biden vs. Trump: Who’s Better for US-India Relations?
With the 2024 elections approaching, Indian-Americans are closely watching the candidates.
Biden’s Approach
✔️ Stable diplomatic relations with India
✔️ Focus on Quad Alliance (US, India, Japan, Australia)
✔️ Restored H-1B visa approvals
✔️ Reversed Trump’s trade tariffs
Trump’s Approach
❌ Imposed tariffs on Indian goods
❌ Unpredictable policy changes
❌ Strict visa policies affecting Indian workers
✔️ Strengthened US-India military cooperation
Survey: A 2024 Carnegie Endowment study found that 60% of Indian-Americans favor Biden, while 25% support Trump.
(FAQs)
1. Do Indian-Americans mostly vote Democrat or Republican?
Historically, Indian-Americans lean Democrat (around 60%), but a growing number support Republicans (about 25%). This shift is largely due to Modi’s influence and Trump’s outreach to the community.
2. How do Trump’s policies affect US-India relations?
Trump imposed tariffs on Indian goods, restricted H-1B visas, and had an unpredictable approach to diplomacy, creating uncertainty in US-India ties.
3. Will Biden’s policies benefit India more?
Biden’s stabilizing policies, Quad alliance focus, and restoration of trade preferences suggest stronger relations with India than under Trump.
4. Why do Indian-Americans support Modi?
Indian-Americans admire Modi’s economic policies, nationalism, and global diplomacy, making him a strong leader in their eyes.
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