Donald Trump has announced his intention to nominate Sergio Gor, a close aide, as the next United States Ambassador to India and Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs. The announcement was made on Truth Social, with Trump praising Gor's work as Director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office. Gor will remain in his current role until his confirmation by the U.S. Senate.
Trump lauded Gor as a "great friend" who has been by his side for many years, highlighting his work on Trump's presidential campaigns, book publications, and leading a Super PAC supporting their movement. Trump emphasized the importance of having someone he trusts to deliver on his agenda in the "most populous Region in the World," stating that Gor will help to "MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN".
Gor, born Sergey Gorokhovsky in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, in 1986, emigrated to the United States with his family. He graduated from George Washington University, where he was involved in conservative causes. His career includes roles as spokesman for Representatives Steve King, Michele Bachmann, and Randy Forbes, as well as communications director and deputy chief of staff for Senator Rand Paul. In 2020, Gor became chief of staff of the Trump Victory Finance Committee. He also co-founded Winning Team Publishing with Donald Trump Jr.
As Director of the White House Presidential Personnel Office, Gor has been responsible for vetting and hiring individuals for positions across the federal government. Trump noted that Gor and his team have hired nearly 4,000 "America First Patriots" and filled over 95% of positions in departments and agencies. Gor's strict vetting process has been a source of both praise and criticism.
Gor's nomination comes at a time of strained relations between the U.S. and India, with potential increases to tariffs on Indian goods looming. If confirmed, Gor would succeed Eric Garcetti, who served as ambassador to India from May 11, 2023, to January 20, 2025. Jorgan K Andrews has been leading the US Embassy in India as interim Charge d'Affaires since Garcetti's exit.
Upon the announcement of his nomination, Gor expressed gratitude and excitement. "Nothing has made me prouder than to serve the American people through the GREAT work of this Administration! It will be the honor of my life to represent the United States!".
