The election of Kamala Harris as the vice-presidential candidate and now as a presidential candidate has been considered a very significant symbolic moment in the history of Indians in the United States, according to Professor Shikaripur N. Sridhar from Stony Brook University in New York, who specializes in Asian and Asian American Studies.
Indian Americans represent 20% of the Asian American population in the country, and their vote can be crucial in decisive states like Georgia and North Carolina. This group of voters is characterized by a high level of education and economic status, making them a highly influential segment of society in elections.
For the Indian diaspora, Harris's potential victory would be a historic milestone that would complete a cycle of migration that began in the 1960s when many Indians came to the United States seeking better opportunities. This moment would be especially significant to honor an entire generation that has contributed to the country.
The support from the Indian community for Harris is notable, with 61% of registered Indian American voters planning to vote for the Democrat, compared to 32% who lean towards the Republican candidate Donald Trump. Despite a modest uptick in favor of Trump, the preference of Indian Americans for the Democratic Party remains solid, especially among young men born in the United States.
Indian Americans represent an immigrant group with high purchasing power, with a median household income of $145,000, higher than that of Asian American households in general. This segment of the population tends to show interest in fiscal policies, supporting candidates who promote policies that benefit them in tax matters.
The descendants of the first generation of Indian migrants in the United States have inherited a strong connection to Indian culture, showing pride in their roots and a growing diverse community. Many Indian Americans identify with Hinduism or maintain close cultural ties to this religion, reflecting the influence of their heritage on their identity and values.
