The influence of Indian-Americans is continuously increasing in American politics. Six Indian-American leaders took oath in the US House of Representatives on Friday, marking the presence of such a large number of Indian-origin lawmakers for the first time. These leaders include Dr. Amy Bera, Suhas Subramanian, Shri Thanedar, Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamurthy, and Pramila Jayapal.
Historical number of Indian-American lawmakers
MP Dr Amy Bera shared a photo on the occasion, saying:
“It is expected that this number will increase further in the coming years.”
Suhas Subramanian took oath as a member of the House of Representatives for the first time. He described it as his “first day on the job,” posting a photo with his family and House Speaker Mike Johnson. At the same time, Ro Khanna, Raja Krishnamurthy, and Pramila Jayapal took oath for the fifth consecutive time.
Four Indian-origin MPs were elected in 2020
Four Indian-origin lawmakers were elected to the House of Representatives during the 2020 US presidential elections:
- Dr. Amy Bera
- Pramila Jaipal
- ro khanna
- Raja Krishnamurthy
All four won the election from the Democratic Party and now represent a significant presence of the Indian community in American politics.
Historical contribution of Indian-Americans
Dalip Singh Saund (1957): First Indian-American parliamentarian
- Dalip Singh Saund was the first Indian-American and Sikh leader to be elected to the House of Representatives in 1957.
- He was from the Democratic Party and was elected for three consecutive terms.
Bobby Jindal (2005–2008): First Indian-American to become state governor
- Bobby Jindal represented Louisiana’s 1st congressional district from 2005 to 2008.
- He later became the Governor of Louisiana, the first Indian-American to lead an American state.
Growing political stature of Indian-Americans
Leaders of Indian origin are rapidly making their mark in mainstream politics of America. Their growing numbers not only reflect the growing strength of the Indian community, but also highlight their influential role in America.
- Dr. Amy Bera: Longest serving Indian-American in the House of Representatives.
- Pramila Jayapal: President of the Congressional Progressive Caucus.
- Ro Khanna: representative of Silicon Valley and supporter of economic reforms.
- Raja Krishnamurthy: Expertise on policy matters and business.
- Suhas Subramanian and Shri Thanedar: New Voices of the Indian Community.