Indian Americans Hesitant to Support Harris, Says Community Leader
Washington: Senior Indian American leader Swadesh Chatterjee has expressed concerns about the hesitance of the Indian American community to support Vice President Kamala Harris in the upcoming November 5 election. He noted that Harris has not built a solid base within the community during her previous roles as California’s Senator and Attorney General.
Chatterjee explained that one major reason for this hesitance is the fragmented nature of the Indian American community. Some affluent members believe that Republican nominee Donald Trump would implement favorable economic policies, particularly regarding tax reductions. Additionally, individuals with strong ties to Hinduism often perceive Trump as better for U.S.-India relations, partly due to events like the Howdy Modi rally.
To raise awareness of Harris’s Indian roots, Chatterjee has created a video and established a website to inform the community. He emphasized the importance of community engagement and unity, stating, “Without unity, it may be difficult for Indian Americans to influence the political landscape effectively.”
Chatterjee also criticized the Democratic Party for categorizing Indian Americans under the broader Asian American-Pacific Islander group and expressed disappointment that Harris has not hosted specific events for this demographic during her campaign. He pointed out that understanding the broader context of U.S.-India relations is crucial for effective political engagement, as these relationships are supported by the U.S. Senate and Congress.
As the election approaches, the sentiments expressed by Chatterjee reflect a broader uncertainty within the Indian American community regarding their political engagement and representation, highlighting the need for greater unity and collective advocacy.