The influence of Indian-Americans in the United States, often referred to as the "Samosa Caucus," has reached new heights, marked by a historic five Indian-Americans securing seats in the House of Representatives during the recent polarized mid-term elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 2023 visit to the US envisioned the community's growth, fulfilling his hope for increased diversity in American politics, particularly in state legislatures where nearly 50 Indian-Americans are now serving, a significant rise from just 10 a decade ago.
The 'Samosa Caucus,' named after the popular Indian snack, includes prominent lawmakers like Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ami Bera, Pramila Jayapal, Ro Khanna, and Shri Thanedar. This group symbolizes the expanding influence of Indian-Americans, building upon the legacy of pioneers like Dalip Singh Saund, who became the first Indian-American politician in 1965.
The trajectory of Indian-American political representation saw a surge with Congressman Ami Bera's election in 2012, and Kamala Harris made history in 2016 by becoming the first Indian-American to be sworn into the Senate and subsequently the first woman and person of color to serve as Vice President. In the 2024 elections, Harris, currently presiding over the US Senate, will run as President Joe Biden's running mate.
Indian-Americans, constituting nearly 2% of the US population, now represent around 1% of the US Congress, all of whom belong to the Democratic Party. The community's growing presence underscores their increasing influence in American politics, with members serving two-year terms in the House of Representatives.
The 2022 elections witnessed Shri Thanedar making history as the first Indian-American to win a Congressional seat from Michigan. Other re-elected members, such as Krishnamoorthi, Khanna, Jayapal, and Bera, continue to contribute significantly to the 'Samosa Caucus.' Furthermore, emerging leaders like Niraj Antani and Suhas Subramanyam are expanding their influence, with Antani running for Congress in Ohio, and Subramanyam announcing his candidacy for US Congress from Virginia's 10th District.
As the landscape of Congress evolves with several members not seeking re-election in 2024, Indian-Americans are poised to play an increasingly prominent role in shaping the future of American politics.
(With Agency Inputs)
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