Who Will Benefit India More: Trump or Kamala Harris?

As the U.S. elections approach, set for November 5, an intriguing question arises: Who will be better for India, Donald Trump or Kamala Harris? The competition is heating up between the Republican candidate, former President Donald Trump, and the Democratic candidate, current Vice President Kamala Harris. Indian citizens and the Indian diaspora are particularly interested in how each candidate could impact U.S.-India relations.

Economic Policies: The U.S. is a key trading partner for India, and under Trump's leadership, there were frequent discussions about trade imbalances. Trump often complained that India imposes high tariffs on American imports and promised to address this if re-elected. This could create challenges for India. Kamala Harris, with her Indian roots, may not adopt radically different policies, but experts believe her approach might be more balanced.

Technology Sector: Regardless of who wins, both Trump and Kamala Harris are likely to take a firm stance against China, which could benefit India's tech industry. Recent agreements between the U.S. and India on semiconductors, AI, quantum technology, and space collaboration signal ongoing cooperation. This strategic partnership is expected to continue regardless of the election outcome, benefiting India's advancement in high-tech sectors.

Diplomatic Relations: U.S.-India relations have grown stronger over the decades, whether the president is a Republican or a Democrat. While Trump and Modi share a good rapport, Kamala Harris’ Indian heritage could also play a role in strengthening ties. Both candidates are likely to maintain positive diplomatic relations with India.

Immigration Policy: Trump's immigration policies have been strict, with a strong focus on curbing illegal immigration. His stance on H-1B visas, crucial for Indian professionals, has been a point of concern. On the other hand, Kamala Harris is expected to adopt a more lenient approach towards immigration, possibly making things easier for Indian immigrants.

In conclusion, both candidates present different opportunities and challenges for India. While Trump may offer continuity in trade and diplomacy, Kamala Harris could provide a more immigration-friendly stance with potential benefits in tech and innovation collaborations.