President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Congressman Mike Waltz as his National Security Advisor is likely to be positive for the India-US relationship, according to Indian-American Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna. Waltz, a Republican, and Khanna, a Democrat, co-chair the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, which is the largest country-specific caucus in the House.
Khanna expressed confidence in Waltz’s role, sharing that they have collaborated on multiple initiatives aimed at strengthening ties with India. Waltz will assume the position from Jake Sullivan once Trump takes office on January 20, 2025. Khanna recalled their productive working relationship, including a delegation trip to India in 2023 to celebrate India’s Independence Day.
Both congressmen have long supported India-US relations. In May, they jointly urged House Speaker Kevin McCarthy to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address Congress, reflecting their shared commitment to reinforcing the partnership. They emphasized the importance of this alliance based on democratic values and a rules-based global order.
Waltz, who has served as India Caucus Co-Chair since January, has stressed India’s significance as the world’s largest democracy and a vital ally to the United States. His leadership aims to solidify political, economic, and security connections between the nations, promoting democracy across Asia and globally.
Waltz’s commitment to India was evident during the COVID-19 crisis, when he and Khanna, then vice chairs of the India Caucus, collaborated to secure medical aid for India. They signed a letter in April 2021 with fellow caucus leaders Brad Sherman and Steve Chabot, urging the U.S. to send vaccine doses and support India’s vaccine production capabilities.
Waltz has also been vocal against China, pushing for policies to curb its influence. He led efforts in early 2021 to call for a boycott of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics unless moved from China. Recently, Waltz, Khanna, and Michael McCaul urged Secretary of State Antony Blinken to advocate for the rights of detained individuals in China, including Uyghurs, during China’s review process at the UN Human Rights Council.
