Is Kamala Harris a Desi President?

Kamala Harris dubbed ‘Desi President,’ a title she doesn’t deserve

Many individuals with roots in the Indian subcontinent identify as “Desi,” a term derived from the Sanskrit word Desh, meaning “nation.” A well-known phrase is “ABCD” (American Born Confused Desi), which has been broadened to mean “Abroad Born Confused Desi.” I fully support the idea that the “C” in ABCD should stand for “Confident,” reflecting how Desis has evolved over time, particularly in the American context. While not every Indian (broadly South Asian) may wish to be called Desi, I proudly embrace this identity as a Bhartiya at heart, even after living abroad since 1973.

The impetus for this article is the misuse of the term “Desi” in the context of Kamala Harris being referred to as a “DESI PRESIDENT,” a label she does not deserve to hold. I deeply respect that her mother, a Hindu who came to the U.S. for higher education, paved the way for her success. While Kamala has every right to identify as a Desi due to her heritage, she has not publicly acknowledged her Hindu roots or Desi identity. Although she has achieved significant political success rising to be the U.S. Vice President, that does not confer the title of Desi upon her. Kudos to her that now she made her way to be the “accidental” nominee as the Presidential candidate of the Democratic party.

A group of devoted supporters is promoting her as the “DESI PRESIDENT,” claiming, “Desis decide who will represent us and the future of our country.” The following image shows her and the running mate (Walz) and the Republican candidate Donald Trump and his running mate (Vance). Their website features a slogan: “Kamala ke Saath: Electing the First Desi President,” aimed at mobilizing and empowering the South Asian American electorate to support Kamala Harris.[1]

But the question remains: Is Kamala truly for Desis? I do not intend to dictate how American Desis (Indian Americans with ancestral ties to Bharat) should vote. However, I wonder if the majority of Desis will rally around her, and whether she would reciprocate by supporting Desi’s causes. If Desis walked and worked ‘together’ with Kamala (Kamala ke Saath) how well she would address important Issues like reforming immigration policies, streamlining pathways from H-1B visas to green cards, and fostering educational opportunities for Indian students and transitioning their visa status to green card? Would a so-called “Desi President” strengthen ties with Bharat, her mother’s homeland, and advocate for its status as the rising power and economy while maintaining a vibrant and largest democracy?

With the Indian American population nearing 5 million—only about 1.35% of the U.S. total—our influence may seem minimal, but every vote counts in a competitive race between Harris and Trump. Indian Americans have the highest per capita income among immigrant groups and hold significant positions across various professions, enhancing our collective influence. Yet, I believe the label of “Desi President” neither inherently translates into support from many Desis nor it should.

In a discussion thread about Harris, it has been noted that the South Asian community is not as united behind her as the African American community was for Obama. Many Desis, while appreciating her mixed heritage and diversity, remain divided. If elected, she would make history as the first woman president, with her Jewish husband serving as the “First Gentleman.” However, her background does not inherently unify Desis, as many feel more divided than ever.

As educated, skilled, and discerning voters, Desis must consider both candidates based on their domestic and foreign policy stances. Key issues include out-of-control federal spending, increasing tax burden, immigration reform, and international relations/ foreign policy. How can either candidate restore American dignity, improve the nation’s image on the global stage, and narrow the widening gap between the haves and have-nots at home and globally?

In all fairness, I don’t even want to be judgmental in characterizing Harris versus Trump. They are two very different individuals in gender, age, policy, and political experiences and baggage, as people’s person, and character. The reality is perhaps more complex than meets the eye because neither has a charismatic personality nor substantive policy and political acumen.

Kamala Harris may resonate with some voters, including Desis, but she should not be labeled a “DESI President.” If elected, let her serve as the President of the United States—without qualifiers—and let Desis make informed choices at the ballot box, independent of her heritage. At best, Harris may call herself ‘American Born Confident Desi’ if she publicly accepts her Desi heritage.

Note:
1. Text in Blue points to additional data on the topic.
2. The views expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of PGurus.

Reference:

[1] Kamala ke Saath: Electing the First Desi President – Desi President

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