As Donald Trump prepares for his inauguration as the 47th President of the United States on January 20, 2025, he has announced key appointments in his administration, including four individuals of Indian origin. These appointments come even before Trump officially takes office and signal a significant involvement of the Indian diaspora in shaping US governance.
Among those appointed is Usha Vance, who will assume the role of Second Lady once her husband, JD Vance, becomes Vice President. Usha’s parents, originally from Andhra Pradesh, made notable contributions in their respective fields in the US. Her father, an IIT Madras graduate, worked as a lecturer, while her mother was a microbiologist. Usha graduated from Yale University and later earned her law degree there. She married JD Vance in 2014, and the couple has three children.
Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, a distinguished medical professional from Kolkata, has been selected to head the National Institutes of Health (NIH). With a background in medicine and economics, Bhattacharya is known for his stance against COVID-19 lockdowns and vaccination mandates, making him a well-known figure in the public health debate. His leadership will guide NIH’s efforts in advancing health research and policies.
Vivek Ramaswamy, an entrepreneur, author, and politician, will take charge of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Ramaswamy, who has been vocal about reducing government waste and inefficiencies, will use his business acumen and academic background to overhaul federal operations. He is expected to play a key role in improving the performance of government functions.
Kashyap Patel, born in New York to parents from Gujarat, has been appointed the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Patel, with a background in criminal justice and international law, has extensive experience in national security and law enforcement. His appointment as FBI Director reflects Trump’s focus on strengthening the nation’s law enforcement agencies.
These four appointments underscore the increasing influence of the Indian-American community in US politics, with these individuals set to make substantial contributions in their respective roles within the Trump administration.
