The fiercely contested U.S. presidential race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will soon reach its climax, with millions of Americans heading to the polls in just a week. Amid the political polarization, the Indian-American community has emerged as a critical voting bloc that could sway the election’s outcome. With more than 5.2 million Indian-Americans residing in the U.S., this demographic, known historically to favor the Democratic Party, has increasingly drawn attention from both political sides.
The Indian-American Influence on the 2024 Election
Indian-Americans have traditionally leaned toward the Democrats, but Republicans have made a concerted effort to win their votes by addressing issues they prioritize, such as economic stability and bolstered U.S.-India relations. This year’s election carries special significance, as Democratic candidate Kamala Harris could become the first person of Indian heritage to hold the presidency, a prospect that resonates strongly with many in the community.
To understand how this influential group plans to vote, the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, in partnership with YouGov, conducted a comprehensive survey. The results, released just days before the election, provide insight into Indian-Americans’ political inclinations and the issues shaping their choices.
Survey Findings: A Divided Loyalty
The survey reveals that 60% of Indian-Americans support the Democratic Party, yet there has been a slight increase in support for Donald Trump. Approximately one-third of Indian-American voters indicated they are likely to vote for Trump, reflecting growing Republican appeal within the community. Gender differences are notable, with 67% of Indian-American women favoring Harris, compared to 53% of men. Meanwhile, 22% of women plan to vote for Trump, while 39% of men show support for the Republican candidate.
Party Shifts and Key Concerns
Though Democrats still retain strong support, the survey points to a decline in self-identified Democratic Indian-Americans, dropping from 56% in 2020 to 47% in 2024. Republicans, however, have maintained a steady base, and the percentage of Indian-American independents has risen. The survey also reveals that certain Indian-American Republicans, including Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy, receive low favorability ratings among Indian-American respondents.
The community’s primary concerns mirror broader national issues, with inflation, cost of living, the economy, and jobs topping the list. Additionally, abortion and reproductive rights emerged as a high-priority issue, particularly among female respondents.
Growing Impact of Indian-Americans in U.S. Politics
As the Indian-American community expands, so does its political influence. Currently, about 3.9 million Indian-Americans are of voting age, with an estimated 2.6 million eligible to vote. With a growth rate of 50% between 2010 and 2020, Indian-Americans now represent the second-largest immigrant group in the U.S., following Mexican-Americans. The community’s median household income is around $153,000, more than double the national average, a factor that underscores their socio-economic significance.
A Complex Future for U.S. Parties
Although the Democratic Party appears to have an edge among Indian-American voters in 2024, the inroads made by Republicans could present a challenge in the years ahead. As Republicans continue their outreach, especially on economic issues that resonate with this demographic, the 2028 election may prove more competitive.
With Indian-Americans playing a crucial role in this historic election, their votes could potentially shape not only America’s immediate future but also the long-term political landscape for both major parties.
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