Indian-origin venture capitalist Asha Jadeja Motwani has publicly stated that she played a role in shaping former US President Donald Trump's position on the contentious H-1B visa program. She also voiced strong support for Vice President JD Vance following his recent remarks declaring America a "Christian nation," comments that have reignited controversy given Vance's marriage to a Hindu wife of Indian origin.
Advocacy for H-1B Visas and Indian Talent
Motwani revealed that she discussed the critical importance of the H-1B visa program directly with both former President Trump and Vice President JD Vance. She emphasized to them how top-tier global talent, with a significant contribution from Indian professionals, is a vital driver of innovation and economic growth in the United States.
Motwani expressed frustration at the lack of support from other high-net-worth Indian Americans, stating she was "truly shocked" that almost a year into her advocacy efforts in Washington DC, she appeared to be acting alone in batting for India's interests on this front.
Endorsement of JD Vance and 'Christian Nation' Remarks
The venture capitalist's comments extended into the political sphere when she publicly praised Vice President JD Vance after his speech at the Turning Point USA AmericaFest event in Phoenix. Motwani took to social media platform X to say she "loved" his address.
She specifically endorsed a line from Vance's monologue: "America is a Christian nation which does not mean you have to be Christian to be American." Motwani drew a parallel to India, posing a rhetorical question: "If foreigners poured into India and condemned our Hindu-ness and demanded we abandon our religion, would we like it?"
Furthermore, she urged her followers to watch what she deemed the "top three speeches" from the event, delivered by Vance, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Motwani also declared herself a proud supporter of the late Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk and commended the MAGA movement for resisting "wokeism" in American universities.
Political Repercussions and Controversy
Vance's declaration that the US has been and will always be a "Christian nation" has placed him back at the center of political debate, primarily due to his personal life. His wife, Usha Vance, is a Hindu of Indian descent, leading critics from across the political spectrum to label his stance as hypocritical.
This dynamic has reportedly caused concern among some Republican leaders about Vance's future political prospects, including a potential presidential run in 2028. The apprehension stems from whether the party's base, particularly factions aligned with white nationalism, would accept an Indian-American, Hindu first lady.
Motwani's dual advocacy—for pragmatic immigration policy to harness Indian talent and for culturally conservative political rhetoric—highlights the complex and sometimes contradictory positions within the diaspora's engagement with US politics.
