Shalabh “Shalli” Kumar expressed pride on Monday night as Donald Trump announced his running mate for the 2024 election. The selection of Ohio Sen. JD Vance was significant not just for his political background but also for his wife, Usha, a 38-year-old Yale graduate and daughter of Indian immigrants.
Kumar, the founder of the Republican Hindu Coalition and chair of the Hindu and Indian Coalition of the Republican National Committee, highlighted the progress of Hindus in the United States since the late '60s, emphasizing the increasing population and political influence.
He remarked that the Vances symbolize a new era for Americans, reflecting the evolving demographics and diversity in the political landscape. The 2024 presidential race has witnessed a notable presence of politicians of South Asian descent, with former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, and Vice President Kamala Harris all playing prominent roles.
Usha Vance's involvement in the Trump campaign has drawn attention from Asian American political activists across party lines. They anticipate that this rise in representation will lead to a concerted effort to engage with a historically overlooked voting bloc, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and outreach in modern politics.
