Indian Americans’ Concerns About India-U.S. Relations Under Trump: A Survey Overview

A Carnegie Endowment survey found that Indian Americans express concerns about U.S.-India relations under Donald Trump, preferring a Harris administration for stronger ties. The survey also revealed political polarization, differing views on India’s actions abroad, and generational differences in engagement with Indian politics.

A recent survey conducted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace highlights concerns among Indian Americans regarding India-U.S. relations under Donald Trump’s anticipated second term. The study, which included 1,206 Indian-American adults, revealed that 53% believe ties would have been stronger had Kamala Harris been in office.

The survey sought to gauge the opinions of the Indian-American diaspora on critical foreign policy following significant elections in both countries in 2024. It indicated that many Indian-Americans view Joe Biden as having managed U.S.-India relations better than Trump during his first term.

Concerns about political polarization were evident, with 66% of Indian-American Republicans favoring Trump as beneficial for bilateral relations. Conversely, only 8% of Democrats shared this sentiment, demonstrating a stark divide. On the U.S. Department of Justice’s claims involving India, approximately half of the participants were unaware, with 51% of those informed believing India’s alleged actions were unjustified.

Opinions on the Israel-Palestine situation also showed division along party lines, where Democrats favored Palestinian issues more than Republicans. Approximately four in ten respondents considered Biden to be pro-Israel. Positive sentiment towards India’s direction increased by 10% from 2020, with 47% affirming support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

Further reflecting on India’s 2024 elections, 40% of respondents viewed the outcome—which denied the Modi government a majority—as indicative of a more democratic process. Milan Vaishnav, co-author of the study, remarked on the limited direct engagement of Indian-Americans with India compared to the more involved foreign-born community. He noted that cultural connectivity endures strongly across generations in the diaspora.

The survey underscores the complexities of Indian-American perspectives regarding U.S.-India relations amidst shifting political landscapes. It underscores the diverse opinions among the diaspora, particularly highlighting political affiliations in shaping views on foreign policy. The strengthened belief in India’s positive trajectory and support for Modi’s leadership raises questions about the broader implications for future relations between the two nations.

Original Source: www.deccanherald.com