Washington: A recent survey reveals that Indian-Americans are increasingly concerned about inflation and abortion, with these issues emerging as key factors in their decision-making for the 2024 U.S. elections. Conducted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, the Indian American Attitudes Survey found that 17% of respondents ranked inflation and rising prices as their primary concern. Abortion rights and job security/economic stability followed closely, with 13% of respondents highlighting each issue.
The survey results showcase a notable partisan divide within the community. Among Republicans in the sample, a significant 39% prioritized economic concerns, encompassing inflation and jobs, compared to 24% among Democrats. Conversely, abortion was a primary issue for 19% of Democratic respondents, while only 5% of Republicans identified it as a top priority. This divide mirrors broader national trends, with Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, focusing on economic criticisms toward Vice President Kamala Harris and other Democrats. Democrats, meanwhile, have emphasized abortion rights and economic issues in their outreach.
Other issues of interest among respondents included immigration (10%), healthcare (9%), climate change and environmental protection (8%), civil liberties (7%), crime (6%), and taxes/government spending (5%). Issues of particular interest to Indian-American identity, such as U.S.-India relations, were cited by 4%, along with education and national security concerns. The survey, conducted online by YouGov from September 18 to October 15, 2024, included 714 Indian-American citizens.
As the second-largest immigrant group in the U.S., with over 5.2 million individuals, Indian-Americans represent an influential voting bloc. Their growing demographic presence and professional success have positioned the community as a crucial political constituency in close electoral contests.
