Vivek Ramaswamy, the Indian-American entrepreneur and politician, is facing a growing challenge: surging anti-Indian hate, particularly within conservative circles. This has sparked a debate about identity, race, and the future of the conservative movement.
Ramaswamy, who launched a campaign for the 2026 Ohio gubernatorial election after withdrawing from the 2024 Republican presidential primaries, has often found himself at odds with elements within his own party. Despite securing endorsements from Donald Trump and the Ohio Republican Party, he has faced racist attacks and xenophobic remarks, often fueled by his Indian heritage.
The issue came to a head recently when an anniversary post Ramaswamy shared featuring his wife, Apoorva, was bombarded with racist and casteist hate online. Trolls mocked his Indian heritage, demanding he "go back to India". This incident exposed fractures within the Republican Party, particularly around issues of race and immigration.
Ramaswamy has also drawn criticism for his views on the H1-B visa program, which allows skilled foreign workers to work in the U.S. While he has called for reforms to the program, some have accused him of hypocrisy, pointing to his Indian background. Ironically, Indian nationals account for a large percentage of H1B recipients.
Adding to the complexity, Ramaswamy recently penned an opinion piece for The New York Times reflecting on what it means to be an American. In it, he condemned figures like Nick Fuentes and defended Usha Vance, the Second Lady of America, against racist attacks. This, however, triggered a "mega MAGA meltdown," with some accusing Ramaswamy of attacking American culture and questioning his right to comment on American identity.
Despite the attacks, Ramaswamy has received support from some quarters. Democratic Congressman Ro Khanna lauded Ramaswamy's condemnation of bigotry and Hindu hatred. Elon Musk also spoke out against the racism directed at Ramaswamy, calling for the removal of "hateful, unrepentant racists" from the Republican Party.
Ramaswamy describes himself as a "conservative American nationalist". His political positions include opposition to environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) initiatives. He has also voiced strong opinions on issues like birthright citizenship and the voting age. While Ramaswamy aligns with many conservative ideals, his willingness to challenge the party on issues of race and identity has made him a target for some.
The rise of anti-Indian hate directed at Ramaswamy highlights a broader struggle within the conservative movement. As the Republican Party grapples with questions of identity and inclusion, Ramaswamy's experience serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by many minorities in the political arena. His ability to navigate these challenges will likely play a significant role in his future political endeavors.
