Georgia's Indian-American voters mobilize for 2024 elections

Indian American voters in Georgia are showing unprecedented enthusiasm this election cycle, with a surge in volunteering and donations. The impetus behind this mobilization is clear: Vice President Kamala Harris, poised to make history as the first South Asian and Black woman to accept a major party’s presidential nomination in the United States.

Impact on the Republican Side

The political landscape in the United States is witnessing a transformative period, with notable figures like Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy making their mark in the Republican Party. Additionally, the potential rise of Usha Vance, wife of Sen. JD Vance, as the GOP vice presidential nominee, adds another layer to the Indian American influence in mainstream politics.

Georgia, a critical swing state that President Joe Biden narrowly won in 2020, has seen a notable increase in Asian American voter turnout, with this group witnessing more rapid growth than any other demographic. The increasing representation of Indian Americans in American politics has significantly heightened excitement among the community.

Shifting Political Landscape

The Indian American voter turnout rate has consistently been impressive, standing at 71% in 2020, according to an analysis by AAPI Data. Traditionally, this high turnout has not translated into continued political engagement. However, this election cycle has witnessed a marked shift, with organizations like Post March Salon and South Asian Women for Harris reporting a notable uptick in Indian Americans seeking to volunteer or donate.

A prime example of this newfound energy is the Chhabra family, who are actively engaged in phone banking and letter-writing campaigns to garner support for Kamala Harris. Jasmina Chhabra, a 43-year-old working mother in the Atlanta area, embodies the spirit of these energized voters. "The minute that V.P. Harris was nominated, I felt a sudden surge. It was extraordinary to think that we have yet another chance for a female to be president. To think that she is a South Asian woman, a woman of color," Chhabra stated.

Support for Women's Rights and Equity

Chhabra's involvement extends beyond mere support; she has taken on a leadership role as the Georgia chapter lead for Post March Salon. This organization successfully organized a fundraising Zoom call for South Asian women supporting Harris, raising over $300,000 from approximately 9,000 attendees in just two hours. Chhabra is motivated by Harris's strong stance on women's rights and equity, which resonates deeply with her as a mother and a member of the Indian American community.