While Indian Americans constitute slightly more than 1 per cent of the American population and less than 1 per cent of registered voters, the group is often ignored as a formidable political force. However, during the 2024 presidential election, they could become a key factor determining the winner, especially in battleground states where their votes are vital.
A recent Carnegie Endowment for International Peace survey indicates that over 70% of Indian American voters will vote for Democratic nominee Joe Biden instead of Republican incumbent Donald Trump. This aligns with their tradition of voting for the Democratic Party which is usually considered more inclusive, progressive and pro-immigrant.
Trump has also been trying to court India Americans, by using his friendship with the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and events such as the “Howdy Modi” and “Namaste Trump”. In addition, he may attract some Indian Americans as a result of his economic policies, position in China, and endorsement by some renowned Indian American Republicans.
Ajay Bhutoria who is a member of the Biden campaign’s National Finance Committee and South Asians for Biden co-founder stated that Indian Americans have an interest in the US future and the relationships of the US with India. He stated that Biden and his running mate Kamala Harris, of Indian descent, will build the American-Indian partnership, and fight against COVID-19, health care, education, climate change and civil rights.
