Republican Congressman Rich McCormick, who co-chairs the India Caucus, has called for a renewed and stronger partnership between India and the United States. Speaking at the Hudson Institute, McCormick emphasized that collaboration between the world’s largest and oldest democracies could usher in “another generation of global peace and prosperity.”
Highlighting the deepening strategic ties, McCormick urged former President Donald Trump to keep India close, describing it as a vital friend in shaping a peaceful and prosperous world order. “When you combine the oldest democracy with the largest, it creates a partnership that can drive development and ensure global stability for years to come,” he said.
The Congressman also weighed in on Trump’s tariff policy toward India, cautioning against harsh trade measures. He pointed out that India’s average tariffs stand around 15 percent, while the US maintains roughly 2 percent, adding that such imbalances should be addressed carefully to avoid straining bilateral relations.
McCormick went on to praise India’s space program, noting its impressive feat of landing a spacecraft near the moon’s dark side in 2023 for just $74 million. He humorously remarked that such efficiency showcased India’s innovation and that the US “could do things far better if we keep our friends close.”
In recent months, both Republican and Democratic lawmakers have stepped forward to defend India-US relations. Six bipartisan letters and resolutions have been circulated in Congress reaffirming support for the Indian American community and strengthening ties with New Delhi.
One of these letters, addressed to President Trump and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, expressed concerns over the administration’s H-1B visa proclamation, warning that it could hurt American competitiveness. Other lawmakers also urged Trump to attend the Quad Leaders’ Summit in India, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation.
Despite earlier tensions caused by Washington’s 50 percent tariffs on Indian goods, including a 25 percent duty on Russian oil imports, recent diplomatic efforts have revived negotiations for a trade deal’s first phase. McCormick’s remarks, along with the bipartisan outreach, signal a shared vision for a more balanced, enduring, and strategic India-US alliance.
