As the results of the 2024 US presidential election unfold, this year’s campaign themes echo some of the central issues in Indian elections, underscoring a shift toward common global concerns. Topics like threats to democracy, electronic voting machine (EVM) reliability, immigration, and citizenship have come to the forefront in both countries.
Former US President Donald Trump, the Republican candidate, voiced concerns about EVM security, drawing parallels to frequent EVM-related controversies in India. Six US congressional districts in battleground states have reportedly used EVMs without paper records, a decision some Trump supporters have questioned amid concerns about election integrity.
Furthering these similarities, Trump’s campaign highlighted immigration as a critical issue, much like debates surrounding illegal immigration in India. Trump promised to bolster border security with 10,000 additional agents, a stance resonating with voters concerned about national security.
Both candidates, Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, have also referenced their ties to India, enhancing their appeal to Indian-American voters. Kamala Harris visited a temple, while Trump underscored his connection with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasizing their shared commitment to addressing issues faced by the Indian community.
As Trump campaigns to “save democracy” and rally voters, the strikingly familiar issues in this election are a reminder of the converging priorities across a politically interconnected world.
