The Rise of Indian Americans in Politics

Indian Americans, despite constituting only about 1.5% of the U.S. population, have gained significant visibility and influence in contemporary politics. This surge is largely attributed to changes in U.S. immigration policy that began in the mid-1960s, which allowed a new wave of highly educated Indian immigrants to enter the country. Many prominent figures, such as Kamala Harris, Nikki Haley, and Vivek Ramaswamy, are the children of this educated elite who were able to leverage their backgrounds and skills within a meritocratic system. Their success reflects the unique intersection of intergenerational privilege, educational attainment, and the opportunities available in the United States for those who navigate its immigration pathways effectively.