Words Vikas Parashram Meshram
NEW DELHI (India CSR): Donald Trump has won the U.S. presidential election, defeating Democratic candidate and current Vice President Kamala Harris, marking his return as President for a second term. He achieved a significant victory, making history by returning to the White House as the 47th president in January 2025. His victory is seen as an opportunity for India. He is the second president in U.S. history, after the 1892 election, to return to office after a gap. Following his win, Trump promised his fellow Americans, “I will fight for you,” and described this as the beginning of a “golden age” for America, emphasizing the unprecedented and powerful mandate he received. Trump’s win is crucial, as he achieved the necessary 270 out of the 538 Electoral College votes.
Key State Victories and Strengthening India-U.S. Relations
Victories in key states like Georgia, Arizona, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Michigan, Nevada, and Wisconsin played an important role in securing his position. With Trump as president, there are expectations that India-U.S. relations, especially in trade, technology, and defense, will strengthen. This may also enhance India’s significance in the Asia-Pacific region. Trump shares a close relationship with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who congratulated him on his victory. Trump’s foreign policy will likely prioritize an “America First” approach, aiming to reduce U.S. dependence on international agreements and organizations.
Stance on China and Middle East Relations
During his previous term, Trump adopted an aggressive stance toward China, recognizing the need for trade tensions to protect America’s economic security. China, meanwhile, has expressed an interest in maintaining respectful relations. Throughout his campaign, Trump discussed ending the prolonged war between Russia and Ukraine, which has lasted over two and a half years. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed an intention to observe Trump’s policies before commenting further. Trump is expected to strengthen ties with Israel and possibly take steps to address ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The manner in which his victory was celebrated in Israel has drawn attention. However, this could strain relations with Iran, although Trump stated post-victory that he would not allow war. Domestically, Trump’s focus is on prioritizing America’s economic and security interests. He favors bilateral deals with traditional partners and maintains a strict stance on immigration and national security.
Campaign Highlights and Vice Presidential Pick
During the election, polls highlighted a considerable gap between Trump and Harris. Trump’s main agenda included “Make America Great Again,” “America First,” and addressing economic issues like boosting domestic production and enforcing strict immigration policies. In his campaign, Trump also promised to make America a “Bitcoin superpower.” Notably, Trump’s vice-presidential running mate, JD Vance, has ties to India through his wife, Usha Vance, who hails from Andhra Pradesh. The election campaign was marked by polarization.
Trump’s Background and Public Image
Prominent entrepreneur Elon Musk played a key role in Trump’s campaign, with Trump referring to Musk as a “star.” Trump graduated from the Wharton School with a degree in Economics in 1968 and joined his father in real estate. His fame was boosted by the TV show The Apprentice in 2000. In 2015, he announced his candidacy for the Republican presidential nomination, and in 2016, he defeated Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton to become the 45th U.S. President. In 2020, he lost to Democratic candidate Joe Biden. Over the past four years, several criminal cases have been filed against him. During the initial phase of this election, incumbent President Joe Biden was defeated by Trump in a TV debate, after which Biden withdrew, transferring the race to Vice President Kamala Harris.
Impact on Trade and Immigration Policies with India
Trump’s “America First” policies may pose challenges for India on trade and immigration issues. During his first term as president (2017–2021), Modi’s government gained experience in managing such challenges. Modi has often referred to Trump as a friend, but it is too soon to say if Trump will drastically alter the stricter policies against India implemented by the Biden administration. It’s widely understood that U.S. policies prioritize American interests. During his campaign, Trump criticized India’s economic protectionism and had previously voiced displeasure over India’s high tariffs on American imports like Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Known as a business-minded politician, Trump prioritized protecting American industries during his first term. In this context, he may adopt a more aggressive stance toward India on tariffs, potentially increasing duties on Indian exports to the U.S., which could affect India’s economy and lead to higher prices for Indian consumers.
Outlook on India-U.S. Relations and Defense Ties
Despite these concerns, Trump’s victory has excited the American business world, with U.S. stock markets responding positively. The growing role of India in the Indo-Pacific means defense ties between the two nations may strengthen. Nonetheless, Trump’s return to power calls for India and the world to be prepared for his unpredictable moves. On one hand, he calls Modi a good friend, while on the other, he criticizes India’s policies against American business interests. Trump also accused India of imposing high tariffs on American goods and advocated a “tit-for-tat” approach in bilateral trade relations during his campaign. This has raised concerns that a Republican administration could impose higher tariffs on India’s $75 billion worth of exports to the U.S. Clashes are expected between Modi’s “Make in India” initiative and Trump’s “America First” vision. Trump’s attempt to reduce H-1B visas during his first term may negatively impact employment-based immigration in his second term.
Diplomacy and Strategic Cooperation
In terms of diplomacy, New Delhi hopes Modi’s good relationship with Trump will help ease tensions in the Gurpatwant Singh Pannun case. Meanwhile, Trump’s mistrust of the U.S. Department of Justice and FBI, which he accused of bias, might benefit India in this complex matter. Still, one should not expect unexpected moves from Trump. On strategic issues, India is likely to coordinate effectively with the Trump administration on arms exports, joint military exercises, and technology transfer. During his first term, Trump’s government signed major defense deals with India, which, if repeated, could strengthen India against Pakistan and China. Ultimately, Trump’s return to power might prove beneficial for India.
About the Author
Vikas Parasram Meshram is a social worker and activities working towards the rights of tribal and marginalized communities.
(India CSR)
