US Election Results: 10 Big Questions For India

Donald Trump secured victory in the U.S. Presidential election early Wednesday morning. His win was confirmed when projections indicated that he had surpassed the 270-electoral vote threshold required for a majority. Trump faced significant competition from Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris.

Trump currently holds 277 electoral votes, while Harris has accumulated 224. To win the presidency, a candidate needs at least 270 electoral votes. This election is being regarded as one of the most significant in recent U.S. history.

Trump, who served as the 45th president from 2017 to 2021, has become the first U.S. president to reclaim the White House after a non-consecutive term in over a century. He previously lost to Joe Biden in the 2020 election. Harris has been serving as vice president since January 2021. Here are 10 big questions for India post-Trump win.

Will the U.S. End Support to Trudeau’s ‘Witch-Hunt’ of the Indian Government Over Nijjar?

The India-Canada relationship has been strained due to the Canadian government’s allegations involving the killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Trump’s policy might not necessarily shift immediately. While Trump has historically maintained a more hands-off approach to international disputes, his preference for bilateral relations could lead him to support India’s position more robustly, especially given his support for India.

Will Trump End Tolerating Khalistani Operatives Openly Functioning on U.S. Soil?

Trump has historically prioritized national security and counterterrorism, and under his leadership, the U.S. has been active in curbing extremist activities, including those linked to Khalistani elements. A second Trump term could see the U.S. adopting a firmer stance on such operatives, as he would likely prefer to strengthen ties with India in countering common threats like terrorism.

Will Trump Reaffirm Ties with India to Forestall an India-China ‘No Choice’ Handshake?

Trump’s approach to foreign policy has often been about aligning with nations to counterbalance China. Given his distrust of China and the growing strategic alignment between India and the U.S. on issues like the Indo-Pacific, Trump is expected to reaffirm ties with India to prevent China influence in the region.

Will Trump Restrict High-Skilled Migration from India?

Trump’s stance on immigration, particularly high-skilled migration, has been restrictive. He has previously aimed to reduce H-1B visas, affecting Indian professionals. Although his focus may shift toward reducing U.S. dependence on foreign labor, given the importance of Indian talent in the tech sector, some exceptions may be made to sustain economic competitiveness.

Will Trump Put Tariffs on Indian Exports to the U.S.?

Trade could remain a contentious issue. During his first term, Trump criticized India for its high tariffs and trade barriers. With his “America First” approach, Trump might consider imposing tariffs or pressuring India to lower tariffs on U.S. goods, though India’s growing role in U.S.-China trade dynamics could offset such measures.

Will Trump Boost Stalled Technology Transfer to India?

Trump’s previous presidency saw efforts to expand defense and technology cooperation with India, especially in aerospace and defense sectors. However, the pace of technology transfer was slow. With India’s strategic importance in countering China, Trump could potentially expedite such transfers, especially in emerging tech and defense.

Will Trump Shift Focus from Ukraine Back to China’s Activities in the Indo-Pacific?

While Trump’s foreign policy was heavily focused on China during his first term, the Ukraine conflict shifted global priorities. If re-elected, Trump might refocus attention on Indo-Pacific security, especially given China’s growing military presence and the significance of alliances like the Quad in countering Chinese influence.

Will Trump Back India’s Push for the IMEC Trade Corridor?

India’s push for the India-Middle East-Europe Connectivity (IMEC) corridor aligns with U.S. interests in reducing China’s Belt and Road Initiative influence. Given Trump’s strategic focus on countering China, he could support India’s infrastructure projects that challenge China’s dominance in global trade routes.

Will Trump Back India in Cornering Pakistan at the FATF & IMF?

Trump’s approach to Pakistan during his first term was assertive, and he could continue to back India’s stance on Pakistan, especially in global forums like the FATF and IMF. His administration might push for stronger actions against Pakistan regarding its financial transparency and efforts to curb terrorism.

Will Trump Rope in Indian Americans in High-Level Cabinet Positions?

Indian Americans have seen a significant increase in political influence in recent years. If Trump wins, he could leverage this by appointing more Indian Americans to key positions, especially in departments that align with his “America First” agenda, such as technology, defense, and commerce.

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