Democrat Ranjeev Puri, an Indian-American, has been elected as the Speaker of the Michigan House, marking a historic first for the community. Puri, who previously served as the first Sikh American in the Michigan House, expressed his honour and commitment to working with other state leaders to fulfil election promises. His election is celebrated as a significant step for Indian-American representation in US politics.
Indian-Americans have achieved significant victories in state legislative races across the US midterm elections, with several individuals securing key positions and making history in various states like Michigan, Arizona, Illinois, and Texas, further solidifying their growing political influence.
Candidates in the US midterm elections are actively engaging with Indian-American voters through cultural events like making dosas and visiting temples. This outreach highlights the growing influence of the Indian-American community, particularly in battleground states where their votes can be decisive. Democratic and Republican candidates are employing various strategies to win over this crucial demographic.
Indian-American physician Amish Shah has made history by becoming the first from the community to represent Arizona in the US Congress. Shah, a Democrat, defeated Republican Jay Feely in Arizona's First Congressional District, flipping a Republican-held seat. A three-term member of the Arizona House of Representatives, Shah campaigned on issues like lowering costs, expanding healthcare, and solving the water crisis, and his victory is part of a broader trend of Indian-American candidates succeeding in US elections.
Several Indian-Americans have achieved significant victories in the US midterm elections, with five securing seats in the House of Representatives and Maryland Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller winning re-election. The article profiles these successful candidates, highlighting their backgrounds and contributions to American politics.
Indian-American Democratic lawmakers Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, Suhas Subramanyam, and Pramila Jayapal have been re-elected to the US House of Representatives, with Pia Dandiya making her debut, marking a strong showing by the community in the recent midterm elections where Democrats gained control of both the House and Senate.
The article explores the growing fascination with American football among Indian Americans, from first to third generations. It highlights how immigrants, initially unfamiliar with the sport, are embracing its strategic depth and social aspects, drawing parallels to cricket's popularity in India. The piece features personal anecdotes, explains the sport's structure, and touches upon its cultural significance and economic scale.
Kerala-born Nithya Raman is currently leading incumbent Mayor Karen Bass in the Los Angeles mayoral race following a recent televised debate. The two Democrats sparred over critical issues like homelessness and public safety. If elected in the November 3 polls, Raman would be the first Indian-American Mayor of Los Angeles.
Indian-American golfer Akshay Bhatia has qualified for the season-ending TOUR Championship at East Lake Golf Club, joining an elite 30-man field. Having previously competed in the event, Bhatia aims to leverage his experience and consistent performance, including a strong showing at the BMW Championship, to challenge top contenders like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy for the FedExCup title and a share of the USD 40 million purse.
Indian-American golfer Sahith Theegala successfully made the halfway cut at the 154th Open Championship, finishing at even-par. While Theegala secured his spot, Australia's Lucas Herbert and America's Sam Burns delivered record-equalling second-round performances. Other Indian-origin players, Akshay Bhatia and Aaron Rai, faced an anxious wait regarding their cut prospects amidst challenging conditions at Royal Birkdale.
Indian-American golfer Sahith Theegala is T-2 after the third round of the 2026 US Open, carding an even-par 70. He shares second place with Scottie Scheffler, Tom Kim, and Sam Stevens, positioning himself as a strong contender for the final round, though leader Wyndham Clark holds a six-shot lead.
Indian-American golfer Akshay Bhatia is in a strong position, tied for third place at the Travelers Championship, heading into the final round. Despite slipping five shots behind leader Viktor Hovland, Bhatia, who previously won the Arnold Palmer Invitational this season, is aiming for his fourth PGA Tour title. The tournament also features a close battle between Hovland and world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.
An Indian-American US Army surgeon in an innovative procedure removed a golf ball-sized tumour developed at the base of the brain by sending an endoscopic device through the patient's nose. Major Jagatkumar Patel, an anterior surgeon at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre near Washington, DC, along with neurosurgeon Army Lt Col Charles Miller, carried out the surgical procedure on Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Andy Archer, who lived with the tumour for 15 years.
A survey by Indian American Impact reveals that 25% of South Asian Americans who voted for Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election plan to support Democratic candidates in the upcoming November 3 midterm elections. Key issues driving voters include cost of living, healthcare, jobs, and education, with discrimination also a significant concern. The survey highlights the potential influence of this demographic in closely contested states like Michigan and Texas.
The first round of the US Open saw Indian-American golfer Akshay Bhatia finish 1-over with four holes remaining, despite a challenging start and fog delays. While Bhatia provisionally stood T-29, other Indian-origin players like Sahith Theegala, Sudarshan Yellamaraju, Manav Shah, and Aaron Rai experienced mixed results, with former champion Wyndham Clark leading the field before play was suspended due to darkness.
The US Congress has paid tribute to the late Indian-American entrepreneur Sivaramakrishnan Somasegar, known as 'Soma', for his significant contributions to Microsoft and the broader technology sector. Congresswoman Suzan DelBene highlighted his impactful career at Microsoft, his role in fostering new startups, and his community involvement, including co-founding the Seattle Orcas cricket team.
Indian-American golfer Manav Shah has qualified for the 2026 US Open, marking a significant achievement for the IGPL as he becomes the first player from the league to qualify for a major championship since its launch last year.
Indian-born democratic socialist Nithya Raman has been elected Mayor of Los Angeles, becoming the first South Asian mayor of the nation's second-largest city. Her victory is part of a broader trend of Indian-American candidates winning in the US midterm elections, highlighting the growing political power of the community.
The Samosa Caucus, an informal group of Indian-American lawmakers, is set to expand its presence in the US House of Representatives following the recent elections. With Democrats gaining control of both the House and Senate, re-elected members like Ami Bera, Ro Khanna, Suhas Subramanyam, and Pramila Jayapal will be joined by newcomers Pia Dandiya and Amish Shah, significantly increasing Indian-American representation on Capitol Hill.
Indian-American scientist Amit Kshatriya's journey from watching rocket launches in Houston to becoming NASA's Associate Administrator is a testament to his dedication and expertise in space exploration.
Indian American Pia Dandiya has won the election to the US House of Representatives from Florida's 22nd congressional district, defeating Marine veteran Casey Askar. Dandiya, a former high school principal, secured 51.9 per cent of the votes, becoming the newest Indian-American US congresswoman and turning a competitive district blue.
Saba Haider, an Indian-origin Democrat elected to the Illinois General Assembly, believes her victory signifies a shift in US voter priorities towards everyday concerns like affordability, healthcare, education, and environment, moving away from divisive politics. She highlighted the challenges of campaigning and the scrutiny faced by women in politics, while also encouraging young South Asian Americans to engage in local campaigns.
US President Donald Trump honoured 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams at the White House for his heroic act of saving 10-year-old Indian-origin boy Nathaniel Rai from drowning at a California beach. The daring rescue, captured on video, earned Williams praise from the President, who also met Nathaniel and his family.
A 21-year-old Indian-American student, Savitha Shan, was among four people killed in a shooting in Austin, Texas. The incident is being investigated as a possible act of terrorism due to evidence found at the scene and the suspect's residence.
US President Donald Trump hosted a Diwali celebration at the Oval Office, attended by prominent Indian-American members of his administration, entrepreneurs, and top CEOs. The event featured the lighting of a diya and highlighted the growing cultural ties and contributions of the Indian-American community.
Trump seems to have made up his mind that a pliant Pakistan will be more useful than India. We cannot expect a change in Trump's policy towards India in his post midterm poll tenure as America's president, observes Ambassador T N Sreenivasan.
The US midterm elections saw the Democratic Party gain control of Congress and key gubernatorial posts, leading international affairs experts to view the outcome as a referendum on President Donald Trump's policies. Analysts suggest the results signal a desire for change in his behaviour and could prompt a more pragmatic approach in his remaining term, with potential implications for global politics and India-US relations.
Following the midterm elections, attention is already turning to the 2028 US presidential polls. Indian American Congressman Ro Khanna is seeing early support for a potential bid, with allies launching a group to build momentum. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has dismissed reports of his own presidential aspirations, affirming his commitment to the current administration.
A group of US lawmakers, led by Grace Meng, has reintroduced the Diwali Day Act in the House of Representatives to recognise Diwali as a federal holiday. The bill aims to acknowledge the cultural significance of Diwali for Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, and various South Asian communities, especially amidst rising anti-Hindu and anti-South Asian hate. If passed, Diwali would become the 12th federally recognised holiday in the United States.
Indian-American Vivek Ramaswamy, endorsed by former US President Donald Trump, has lost Ohio's gubernatorial race to Democrat Amy Acton, who made history as the state's first woman governor.
American singer Mary Millben has become a prominent figure in Indian political discourse due to her outspoken support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, using social media to defend him against critics and appeal to young Indians, despite her musical career being less known in the country.
Shuchita Patel, an Indian-American Democrat, is making a historic bid for Forsyth County Commissioner in Georgia, a region with a dark racial past. Running against a 16-year unopposed incumbent, Patel aims to bring change and stand up to what she calls a "bully" opponent, driven by a desire to create a better community for future generations amidst a deeply divided American political landscape.
Jyot Singh has made history by becoming the first Sikh to be elected to the Georgia House of Representatives. The Yale University alumnus won his election for House District 97 in the November 3 elections, securing 68 per cent of the votes. Singh, a Democrat, highlighted his commitment to diversity and ensuring opportunities for all residents in his vision statement.
Vaishnavi Adkar and Rutuja Bhosale have made history by becoming the first all-Indian pair to reach a WTA Tour-level doubles final. They achieved this feat at the Chennai Open, defeating second seeds Weronika Falkowska and Alana Smith in a thrilling semifinal match. The Indian duo recovered from a mid-match slump to win 6-2, 2-6, 10-8, securing their place in the final against Swiss pair Naima Karamoko and Simona Waltert.
An American shrimp producer's complaint against an Indian exporter over alleged forced labour could threaten 35% of India's marine exports to the US.
Over 100 US lawmakers, led by Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, have written to FBI Director Kash Patel demanding an investigation into an attempted mass shooting at a Hindu temple in Illinois as a federal hate crime. They also sought answers on measures to address online threats targeting Indian-Americans, criticising the Trump administration's past messaging for legitimising racial stereotypes.
US missions across West Asia have issued a security alert advising American nationals to "exercise heightened vigilance" due to Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia and the potential for Iran and its allies to target US interests. The advisory warns of potential travel disruptions and escalating hostilities, linking the Houthi actions to Iran's regional network and the ongoing US-Iran conflict.
Americans are voting in crucial midterm elections, widely seen as a referendum on Donald Trump's presidency. The elections will determine control of the House and Senate, with Democrats hoping to gain power. Key races include governorships and numerous Indian-American candidates. Trump's last-minute policy announcements and campaigning efforts are highlighted, as analysts predict a potential shift in power that could limit his agenda.
India-born urban planner Nithya Raman, who made history by unseating incumbent Karen Bass in the Los Angeles mayoral election, developed her political philosophy through grassroots activism in Chennai. From 2010 to 2013, she led Transparent Chennai, mapping public sanitation, advocating for waste pickers, and opposing slum evictions, using data-driven approaches that later informed her successful mayoral campaign focused on housing affordability and homelessness. She is set to take office on December 14, 2026, as the first Indian-American and South Asian mayor of Los Angeles.
Top US lawmakers, leaders, and civil society members have strongly condemned an alleged plot to attack a Hindu temple in Illinois. Alexandros Paporakis, 19, was arrested for attempting a mass shooting at the Aurora temple, which failed when his rifle jammed. Indian-American Congressmen and other officials have called for efforts to combat rising anti-Indian and anti-Hindu prejudice in America, highlighting the need to protect minority houses of worship.
