Trump’s 2.0 cabinet's major Hindu representation seen as a big win for India

Donald Trump’s incoming cabinet for his second term is being hailed as a significant win for India, with several Indian-origin lawmakers taking key positions.

These appointments have sparked heated controversy, not only due to their political credentials but also because of their outspoken views on religious issues, adding an unusual aspect to the new government.

Kash Patel, a 44-year-old Gujarati Trump supporter, is one of the most recent arrivals. In addition to Patel, people like Vivek Ramaswamy and Tulsi Gabbard have drawn notice for their outspoken adherence to their Hindu heritage.

Despite not being directly related to India, Tulsi Gabbard's strong affinity for Hinduism—specifically, the teachings of the Hare Krishna philosophy—has been a defining characteristic of who she is.

She has always been outspoken about her beliefs and is frequently spotted praying and reciting bhajans.

During her deployment in Iraq, she brought the Bhagavad Gita with her, and in 2016, she swore her oath of office while holding the holy book.

Gabbard prioritized promoting better US-India ties while serving as a representative, promising to spearhead initiatives to back Prime Minister Modi's appeal to the UN and to speak out strongly for India's interests in Congress.

Trump appointed former presidential candidate and supporter Vivek Ramaswamy to head his new Department of Government Efficiency, alongside SpaceX CEO Elon Musk.

When asked about his religious beliefs, Ramaswamy enthusiastically said, “I’m Hindu, and I’m proud of that. I stand for that without apology. I believe my faith will strengthen my commitment to defending religious liberty.”

While Ramaswamy connects with his Hindu cultural heritage, he frequently emphasizes wider, universal ideals rather than specific religious concepts, saying clearly that his faith would not affect his allegiance to the law if appointed to any critical position.

Donald Trump sparked controversy on Nov 1 when he nominated Kash Patel to succeed Christopher Wray as FBI director, subject to Senate approval.

Patel, who is well-known for his strong support for Trump and the "drain the swamp" agenda, has also been outspoken in his support for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, arguing that Western narratives miss its historical significance.

He criticized US media for focusing on recent events while ignoring the temple's centuries-old history.

"Whether or not you are Hindu or Muslim, there was a Hindu temple there for one of the quintessential gods in the Hindu pantheon in 1500 that was toppled, and they have been trying to get it back for 500 years. Washington establishments conveniently forgot this part of history,” he said in February.

In addition to these, Trump has nominated Indian-origin Dr. Jay Bhattacharya as director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

While Bhattacharya has ties to Kolkata, he has not made a definitive remark regarding his faith.

Usha Chilukri Vance, an Indian-American Hindu married to upcoming Vice President JD Vance, will also serve as second lady in Trump's White House.