US lawmakers unite across party lines to defend India-US ties amid Trump policies

US lawmakers unite across party lines to defend India-US ties amid Trump policies

In a rare show of bipartisan unity, US lawmakers from both Republican and Democratic parties have joined hands to defend the India–US strategic partnership, weeks after the Trump administration introduced policies impacting Indian interests.

Over the past ten days, at least six bipartisan letters and resolutions have been sent to the administration and Congress, underscoring concern for the Indian American community, the H-1B visa restrictions, and reaffirming support for India as a key ally.

A recent letter co-signed by Democrats Sanford Bishop, Shri Thanedar, Suhas Subramanyam and Republican Rich McCormick warned that a Rutgers University event could fuel anti-Hindu sentiment amid a rise in temple vandalism.

Another bipartisan group urged President Donald Trump and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to reconsider the H-1B visa proclamation, warning it could harm US competitiveness. Meanwhile, a House resolution recognised the Indian American diaspora’s contributions and called the India–US relationship “one of the most important democratic partnerships in the world.”

This renewed congressional engagement follows months of friction after the administration imposed 50% tariffs on Indian imports and a $100,000 H-1B visa fee, moves seen as protectionist. Despite tensions, both sides are now working to stabilise trade relations, and Trump’s recent Diwali event at the White House, where he praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signaled a diplomatic reset.

Congressman Ami Bera said bipartisan cooperation must focus on strengthening ties, calling the partnership “an American priority, not a partisan issue.”

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