Indian-origin actress Poorna Jagannathan, recognized for her performances in films such as Delhi Belly and Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani, as well as the Netflix series Never Have I Ever, has publicly endorsed US Vice President and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris for the upcoming presidential election.
In an exclusive interview with India Today, the 51-year-old actress stated, “I am wholeheartedly supporting Kamala Harris. This election is very multi-faceted for me. As an immigrant, a survivor of sexual violence, and an advocate for a ceasefire in the Middle East, I have directly felt the impacts of climate change.”
Jagannathan emphasized her strong belief in the values represented by the Democratic Party and Harris, stating that her decision to support the Vice President is deeply personal.
This endorsement arrives just hours before the pivotal election where Harris will face off against her Republican opponent, former President Donald Trump.
Commenting on the perspectives of Indian-American voters in the current election cycle, Jagannathan noted the importance of solidarity among diverse minority groups rallying behind Harris. She urged undecided Indian-American voters to reflect on their identity when making their choice for President, highlighting a noticeable divide between Indian-American men and women.
Jagannathan cautioned, “We may not feel threatened by Trump’s Diwali messages, but we must recognize that what happens to one immigrant group impacts us all.” She referenced the post-9/11 climate of Islamophobia, which also affected the Sikh community, warning against complacency regarding Trump’s immigration policies.
Additionally, she spoke on the critical issue of abortion rights, underscoring its relevance not just for women, but for men as well.
Jagannathan joins a prominent list of celebrities endorsing Kamala Harris, which includes renowned artists like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Bruce Springsteen, as well as actors such as Julia Roberts and Samuel L. Jackson.
