‘Given a bullhorn to set the moral tone’: Newly elected US lawmaker Amish Shah on anti-India hate

Amish Shah, the newly elected US congressman from Arizona's first district, expressed his intention to address the growing anti-India sentiment within the country. Shah emphasized the importance of setting the moral tone for the nation, stating that he has been granted a "bullhorn" by the American people to speak out against hate and discrimination.

Born in Chicago, Shah has deep familial roots in Gujarat and recounted how his uncles' kindness allowed his mother to pursue higher education in the United States. This gesture of support, Shah noted, was a turning point in his life that led him to where he is today.

Among his key priorities as a congressman, Shah plans to roll back the tariffs imposed by the previous administration and assert Congress's authority over trade decisions. He highlighted the concerns of Indian-American entrepreneurs, particularly those in the gems and jewelry sectors, who have reached out regarding the impact of tariffs on their businesses. Shah stressed that these tariffs are not only raising the cost of basic goods for American consumers but also affecting small businesses within his district.

In addition to tackling issues specific to the Indian-American community, Shah is committed to addressing the rising cost of living, healthcare affordability, and economic growth. He acknowledged that constituents have made it clear that these topics are among their top priorities, along with concerns over water supply.

Shah further announced his intention to join the India Caucus in Congress and collaborate with fellow lawmakers, such as Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, to address matters concerning India and the Indian-American community. He expressed his willingness to work across party lines, drawing from his experience as a three-term legislator in the Arizona House of Representatives, where he managed to pass more bills than any other Democrat in a decade while working with a Republican-controlled legislature.

Shah emphasized his commitment to bipartisan cooperation, mirroring the approach he took during his tenure in the Arizona state legislature.