USISC President Ramesh Kapur hosts California Gov. Newsom at his home

The gathering applauded Newsom’s support for entrepreneurial initiatives and his principled stance on key issues affecting Indian-Americans.

USISC President Ramesh Viswanath Kapur honoring Governor Gavin Newsom. / Courtesy Photo

US India Security Council president, Ramesh Viswanath Kapur, and his wife Susan hosted a fundraiser at their Massachusetts home for Governor Gavin Newsom of California on July.7.

The event highlighted the importance of democratic values, entrepreneurship, and the role of minority communities, particularly Indian Americans, in shaping America's future. Indian-origin leaders, entrepreneurs, and young people, attended the event and applauded Newsom’s principled stance on key issues and support for entrepreneurial initiatives.

Kapur began the evening by thanking Gov. Newsom for vetoing the controversial SB 403 bill, which aimed to ban caste discrimination. The host also expressed his belief that Governor Newsom has a good chance of becoming the 47th President of the United States.

Addressing the gathering, Gov.Newsom shared his journey from entrepreneur to Governor, recounting his early days selling wine from his living room as a teenager in the 1980s. He highlighted his work on homelessness and urban development during his tenure on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and his national headlines as Mayor of San Francisco in 2004 when he authorized same-sex marriage licenses and implemented universal healthcare for city residents.

Newsom also spoke about the sister city initiative with Karnataka, India, during his mayoral tenure, which allowed him to visit the country with a delegation of business and community leaders from San Francisco. He expressed eagerness to visit India again as Governor.

Emphasizing the importance of AI, technology, entrepreneurship, and the contributions of immigrants, Newsom stated, "42 percent of all startups in California are founded by immigrants, and they are the lifeblood of our state."

Addressing the strengths of Massachusetts, Newsom highlighted how renowned institutions of higher learning serve as conveyor belts for talent, fostering competition based on talent rather than price. He noted that California and Massachusetts' human capital sets them apart, emphasizing the inclusiveness and growth that benefits everyone.

The evening concluded with attendees speculating about a potential presidential run by Newsom or Vice President Harris, given recent debates and pressure within the Democratic Party.

The event was attended by business leaders such as Vikram Rajadhyaksha, Dr. Venu Kondle, Yash and Jigna Shah, Manoj and Vaishali Shinde, Mathias and Natalia Troger, Shirish and Allison Nimgaonkar, tech entrepreneurs Thomas Arul, Manny Arora, Priya Samant, Yogi Gupta, Rishi Yadav, community leaders including Raj Dichpally, Ranjani, Sandip Asija, Rahul, Bernice Singh, Dr. Anil Saigal, and restaurateur Vinod Kapur, who provided the catering. Rishi Kumar, former candidate for the U.S. House representing California's 16th Congressional District, was also present.

“This memorable evening not only celebrated the entrepreneurial spirit and democratic values but also reinforced the significant contributions of the Indian-American community to the fabric of our nation. Governor Newsom’s visionary leadership and commitment to inclusiveness and innovation continue to inspire and drive progress,” a news release started.