New York [US], November 6, 2024: As the US presidential election results await final tallies, Indian-American businessman Sant Singh Chatwal believes that US-India relations will remain robust no matter who wins—whether it’s Republican candidate and former President Donald Trump or Democratic candidate and Vice President Kamala Harris.
“Trump had very good relations with [Prime Minister Narendra] Modi,” Chatwal stated, “but don’t underestimate Kamala Harris. I strongly feel that she’s looking forward to her visit to India… I am very positive that America would like to develop close relations with India. Whether it’s Trump or Kamala Harris, both will have a very strong relationship with India,” Chatwal said as voting continued in the 2024 US presidential election.
US-India Ties: A Strategic Priority
The relationship between the two countries has evolved into a strategic partnership, with the US increasingly viewing India as an essential ally in the Indo-Pacific. This alignment is marked by shared interests in regional stability, economic collaboration, and defense, areas both candidates are expected to continue supporting.
Voter Sentiment: A Slight Edge for Harris
Chatwal observed that voter sentiment appears to be leaning toward Kamala Harris, citing what he perceives as “instability” in Trump’s leadership style. “I think voters are leaning more toward Kamala Harris because Trump has been very unstable,” he explained. Citing examples, Chatwal highlighted inconsistent statements from Trump, including fluctuating remarks about his interactions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which he believes have contributed to voter concerns.
Chatwal also emphasized the importance of key battleground states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada, where the race is incredibly close. “Right now, it’s neck and neck,” he said, “but Harris has a strong base, especially among women, due in part to issues like abortion.” Chatwal believes that a high turnout from women voters could favor Harris.
Record-Breaking Turnout and Spending in the 2024 Election
Noting an exceptionally high voter turnout, Chatwal remarked that this election has been one of the most expensive he’s witnessed in the US. “People are coming out in large numbers to vote, which is critical,” he said. “This election is the costliest I have seen in my 45 years of following US elections. Billions of dollars have been spent, with Kamala’s campaign spending more than Trump’s.”
Chatwal added that turnout, particularly among women, could be pivotal. “It’s neck and neck, but I’m optimistic that Kamala has the edge, especially with more women showing up to vote,” he stated, pointing to the enthusiasm among women voters as a critical factor.
On Recent Tensions with Canada Over Khalistani Issues
Chatwal also addressed recent concerns about attacks on Hindu temples in Canada by Khalistani elements, suggesting the situation has escalated too far. “This has gone way out of control, and Canada should have been more cooperative with India,” he commented. “It’s unfortunate because these actions reflect a small segment of people who have never even been to Punjab,” he noted, urging Canada to build a stronger cooperative stance with India on this issue.
Concluding on an optimistic note, Chatwal expressed confidence in Harris’s chances while reiterating his belief that US-India relations will stay strong regardless of who wins the White House.
