Indians Likely to Play Key Roles in Trump's Office: Indo-American Figures Poised for Executive Committee Positions
by Varun Keval · The Hans IndiaHighlights
Indo-American figures, including Vivek Ramaswamy, Kashyap Patel, Bobby Jindal, and Nikki Haley, are likely to play key roles in Donald Trump's second-term executive committee.
Donald Trump has maintained a positive view of India from the start. There is a perception that, regardless of the task at hand, it will be carried out with full efficiency. Even though mainstream social media and celebrities distanced themselves from him, people like Vivek Ramaswamy stood by him and campaigned during the election.
In this context, there is growing speculation that Indo-Americans could play an important role in Trump's executive committee. It seems that right after Trump assumed office for his second term, the selection process for his executive committee began.
Vivek Ramaswamy Competed with Trump and then became a supporter:
Vivek Ramaswamy, a 38-year-old biotech entrepreneur, began as a competitor to Trump in the 2024 election but later became one of his vocal supporters. Known for being outspoken, Ramaswamy defended Trump in interviews.
After observing his performance, Trump is reportedly considering giving him a key role in his executive team.
At a meeting held in Pennsylvania, Trump announced that Ramaswamy would be part of his executive committee.
Kashyap Patel’s name is also being discussed:
Another name being mentioned is Kashyap Patel, a person of Indian origin, who is a staunch supporter of Trump. Kashyap’s family hails from Gujarat, with his parents having grown up in East Africa.
His father immigrated to America due to threats from Ugandan dictator Idi Amin. Kashyap was born in Garden City, New York, in 1980.
After graduating from the University of Richmond, he completed law studies at University College London. Initially, he wanted to work in a law firm but struggled to find a job. He eventually worked as a public defender in Miami courts and joined the Justice Department.
Later, he was appointed to work for the House Intelligence Committee. He contributed to the investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 elections.
Kashyap Patel is well-versed in Trump’s defense priorities.
He played a role in operations targeting ISIS leader al-Baghdadi and al-Qaida leader al-Rimi.
Additionally, he helped secure the release of Americans held hostage in various regions. Kashyap also served as a Liaison Officer in the Special Operations Command of the Justice Department.
Bobby Jindal’s potential role:
Former Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal’s name has also come up, and he is likely to be considered for the role of Secretary of Health and Human Services in Trump’s administration.
Jindal currently leads the Center for a Healthy America.
His previous experience as a state governor makes him a strong candidate for an executive role in Trump’s team.
Nikki Haley's potential appointment:
Initially, Nikki Haley disagreed with Trump and distanced herself from his candidacy during the election. However, she later raised her voice in support of him, and her supporters were sent to the National Convention to back Trump.
With her experience as the former Governor of South Carolina, Haley is also a potential candidate for a role in Trump’s executive committee.