Kamala Harris’s Historic Role
Kamala Harris made history as the first Black woman and the first woman of Indian descent on a major US presidential ticket. When Joe Biden selected her as his running mate in 2020, Indian media buzzed with speculation about how her Indian heritage might strengthen US-India relations. However, four years later, as Harris is poised to secure the Democratic nomination for president, expectations of any significant changes in bilateral ties are low.
Harris’s Focus on Domestic Issues
Prioritizing Reproductive Rights and Border Security
Despite her historic candidacy, Harris’s tenure as Vice President has seen her focus predominantly on domestic issues. Key priorities have included reproductive rights and border security, leaving little room for a personal focus on India. This domestic-centric approach has tempered initial excitement in India about her potential impact on US-India relations.
Lack of Personal Engagement with India
While Harris did host Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the White House and spoke about her Indian heritage, she has not visited India during her vice presidency. This lack of direct engagement has contributed to the muted expectations regarding her influence on US-India ties.
Continuity in US-India Relations
Bipartisan Support for Stronger Ties
Historically, US-India relations have strengthened under both Republican and Democratic administrations. Analysts suggest that this trend is likely to continue irrespective of Harris’s presidency. The strategic partnership, driven by mutual concerns over China and shared interests in technology and defense, provides a stable foundation for future relations.
Harsh Pant’s Perspective
Harsh Pant from the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi emphasized that India’s productive relationship with the Biden administration is expected to continue if Harris becomes president. He noted, “There would be a degree of continuity if she’s elected to the White House. India has had a productive relationship with Mr. Biden, and Kamala Harris was part of the administration.”
Harris’s Indian Heritage: A Non-Factor?
Sreeram Sundar Chaulia’s Analysis
Sreeram Sundar Chaulia, dean of the Jindal School of International Affairs, highlighted that Harris’s Indian heritage is not a prominent aspect of her public persona. Unlike Rishi Sunak in the UK, who openly embraces his Indian and Hindu roots, Harris’s African and Caribbean heritage is more visible. This difference further diminishes expectations of her presidency significantly altering US-India relations.
Harris’s Criticism of Modi’s Kashmir Policy
During her 2019 campaign, Harris criticized Modi’s policies on Kashmir, advocating for the rights of Kashmiris. This stance, while resonating with some, has not been a focal point in her political career, further signaling that her presidency might not prioritize Indian issues.
The Modi-Trump Connection
Warm Personal Ties
Modi is widely believed to have enjoyed warmer and more personal ties with former President Donald Trump. Their mutual admiration was evident in events like “Howdy Modi” in Houston and “Namaste Trump” in Gujarat. These events underscored a unique bond that may not be replicated under a Harris administration.
Political Implications
Modi’s alignment with Trump could influence perceptions of US-India relations under a Harris presidency. The personal rapport between leaders can play a role in diplomatic relations, and Modi’s connection with Trump highlighted a different dynamic than what is expected with Harris.
Endorsements and Support for Harris
Democratic Leaders Rally Behind Harris
In a significant development, President Joe Biden endorsed Kamala Harris to succeed him as the Democratic candidate. Prominent Democrats like Nancy Pelosi, Bill and Hillary Clinton, and several governors have also thrown their support behind her. This widespread backing strengthens her position and sets the stage for a robust campaign against Donald Trump.
Governors and Key Figures
California Governor Gavin Newsom, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, and others have endorsed Harris, emphasizing her capability to lead the nation. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a potential challenger, praised Biden but ultimately endorsed Harris, highlighting the party’s unity.
The Future of US-India Relations
While Kamala Harris’s Indian heritage initially sparked excitement in India, her presidency is unlikely to bring dramatic changes to US-India relations. The strategic partnership between the two nations is expected to continue, driven by mutual interests rather than individual leaders. Harris’s focus on domestic issues and her less prominent Indian identity mean that the economic and strategic logic underpinning bilateral ties will remain intact. As the Democratic candidate, Harris’s journey to the White House will be closely watched, but the broader trajectory of US-India relations will likely maintain its upward momentum.
