Around 70% of Hindu Americans voted for Donald Trump in the recent presidential elections, driven by dissatisfaction with the Democratic Party’s handling of human rights issues, particularly those affecting Hindus in Bangladesh. Dr. Bharat Barai, a prominent Indian-American leader, stated that the Democratic Party had not actively courted Indian-American support and had, in some instances, insulted the community.
He criticized the Democratic leadership, including President Joe Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and Vice President Kamala Harris, for their failure to strongly condemn the violence against Hindus in Bangladesh, where more than 100 people were killed, temples were destroyed, and Hindus were subjected to harassment.
Despite the Hindu-American community being relatively small, Barai emphasized their crucial role in swing states, noting their significant influence on the outcome of the elections. Barai attributed Trump’s success with Hindu voters to his statements on the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh and his appointments of Indian-American figures like Vivek Ramaswamy and Tulsi Gabbard to prominent positions.
Attending Diwali celebrations at the U.S. Capitol, Barai expressed hope for stronger U.S.-India relations under the next administration, citing Trump’s support for India during his presidency, particularly his role in advancing the Quad partnership with India, Japan, and Australia to counter China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
Barai also credited Hindu Americans for Trump’s victories in key battleground states such as Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, claiming that their support contributed to his increased margins, especially in Georgia, where Hindu American votes played a significant role in his victory.
