Trump 2.0 Policies Related to Diaspora and Advocacy

The largest tournout for Indian American advocacy day on Capitol Hill organized by FIIDS. / FIIDS

The 2024 U.S. Presidential election has spotlighted Indian American voters like never before. With a population exceeding 4 million, Indian Americans have emerged as a critical bloc, particularly in swing states where their concentrated numbers can sway the outcome. This realization has spurred greater outreach, and organizations like Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) have played a significant role, hosting voter registration and mobilization campaigns that rippled across the community.

 

Trump 1.0

President Trump’s first term brought seismic shifts in U.S. foreign policy, particularly toward South Asia and China. The warmth between President Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi was evident, peaking with the iconic Howdy Modi event in Houston. This was not mere optics; it reflected a deeper alignment between the two nations, particularly in countering China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific.

 

Biden approach

To his credit, President Joe Biden carried forward several of these policies, even as India’s neutral stance on the Ukraine war initially created friction. Biden accorded Modi a historic state visit status in 2022, cementing the ICET (Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology) and IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor) partnerships. These initiatives underscored the bipartisan recognition of India’s strategic importance. 

Indian-American divide

However, there were concerns about his administration’s handling of minorities in Bangladesh and Canada. Indian American voters were divided over this. Many older voters prioritize U.S.-India relations and international issues like minority protection in Bangladesh, Hindu safety in Canada, and attacks on Indian temples and consulates in the U.S. Conversely, younger Indian Americans—those born and raised here—tend to lean toward liberal domestic policies, placing less emphasis on bilateral ties.

Trump 2.0

President-elect Trump’s recent appointees have rekindled optimism within sections of the Indian American community. Names like Vivek Ramaswamy, Tulsi Gabbard, Mike Waltz (Co-chair of the India Caucus), and future Secretary of State Mike Rubio suggest a tilt toward pro-India policies. 

Under Trump’s leadership, we can expect a deeper alignment between the Indo-Pacific and South Asia. Trump’s assertive diplomacy, often bypassing bureaucratic channels, may lead to more direct engagement with leaders like PM Modi. Trump will be supportive of India’s position on Kashmir and critical of China’s incursions in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. Unlike President Biden’s measured, State Department-led approach, Trump’s hands-on style could deliver swift decisions on contentious issues. 

Testing times

While the prospects seem promising, challenges remain. Trade tariffs will likely surface as a sticking point. India must adopt a transactional approach to navigate these complexities, ensuring win-win outcomes. Simultaneously, evangelical influences within the Trump administration could challenge India’s anti-conversion laws and FCRA (Foreign Contribution Regulation Act) enforcement, which have drawn criticism from U.S.-based evangelical groups.

On tech / legal immigration, some Republicans’ recent rhetoric against H1B visas is troubling. It risks ignoring the undeniable contributions of skilled Indian professionals to America’s technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship ecosystems. Advocacy groups like FIIDS must intensify efforts to address H1B reform, green card backlogs, and ageing-out children of long-term visa holders.

 

Indo-American advocacy 

In this dynamic landscape, organizations like FIIDS continue to be critical. Through its annual advocacy summits, FIIDS has brought hundreds of Indian American delegates to Capitol Hill, fostering dialogue with nearly 100 members of Congress. Moving forward, Indian American advocacy, FIIDS, will be focussing on: 

•    Strengthening U.S.-India relations on international matters, including Indo-Pacific
•    Streamlining trade between the two nations.
•    Advocating for the continuation of ICET and India Middle-east Corridor (IMEC).
•    Highlighting the plight of minorities in Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Canada.
•    Pushing for tech immigration reforms.

While the policy groundwork laid during Trump’s first term and Biden’s presidency offers a solid foundation, much depends on sustained advocacy and proactive engagement. As an Indian American policy strategist, I am optimistic yet cautious—hopeful for strengthened ties but mindful of the challenges ahead. Together, with community-driven efforts, we can ensure that Indian Americans continue to shape the narrative for a stronger, more inclusive future.

 

(The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of New India Abroad.)