Kamala Harris Delivers a Clear Victory in Debate, Strongly Supported by South Asian American Voters

Philadelphia, PA— Indian American Impact Fund, a leading national political organization and prominent voice for Indian and South Asian Americans, celebrates Vice President Kamala Harris’s decisive victory in tonight’s presidential debate against Donald Trump.

Amidst the vitriol and outrageous lies from former President Trump, two distinct visions for the future of America emerged. Vice President Harris described a vision where everyone has a fair shot at achieving the American Dream, while Trump spread lies and spewed extreme MAGA rhetoric that leaves behind communities like ours.

Chintan Patel, Executive Director of Indian American Impact Fund, shared the following statement:

“The clear winner in tonight’s debate, Vice President Kamala Harris delivered a powerful performance that demonstrated her unwavering commitment to an opportunity economy that uplifts all people. She laid out a bold vision for a new way forward — one that prioritizes economic fairness, expands access to healthcare, and protects our fundamental freedoms.

From capping insulin costs at $35 per month, which benefits many in the South Asian community, to expanding tax deductions for small businesses, Kamala Harris has consistently shown that she is the only presidential candidate fighting for our families and our future. 

As a former prosecutor, Harris stood firm against a convicted felon who has proven time and again he is only out for himself. We are confident the South Asian American community will rally behind Vice President Harris and help deliver the White House in November.”

 Community Reactions: 

• Sona Sood, a coach and actor from Atlanta, GA, said: “I watched the debate very carefully tonight. While Vice President Harris remained calm, offered substantive answers on policy, and continually offered us solutions, Donald Trump fell to the level of an ill-prepared and unstable individual who has no right going near the White House. He refused to answer questions. He had no plans he could offer, whatsoever, including his “health plan,” and within minutes of the debate starting, dished out xenophobic and racist comments. He continually bashed immigrants, he derided the Exonerated 5, he couldn’t speak intelligently about any foreign policy, and indulged in angry tirades that had no point. Every American needs to ask themselves who they trust to lead this country based on what they witnessed tonight.”
• Lakshmi Iyer, a mother in Exton, PA, said: “Not answering the question must be a Trump specialty. Yes or No on the abortion ban”
• Michigander Angana Shah on Trump’s attempt to distance himself from Project 2025 said: “He says ‘I didn’t read it’ – we know you don’t read. We also know that Project 2025 was written by all your advisers, and that your proposed VP, JD Vance wrote the introduction to the Project 2025 leader’s book. You know what it is, and you know it is your plan.“
• Neha Saraiya, a pediatrician in Montgomery NJ, is “grateful for Vice President Harris correcting the erroneous info on “9-month” and “post-birth” abortions — glad she spoke on healthcare and women’s rights. I’m thankful for the factual statements by Vice President Harris on all issues. Keep fighting for democracy.”
• Shirley Desai, a writer in Chicago, IL, felt that “Kamala really put Trump on the defensive. I  was pleased to see her clearly express complex global issues in a simple way. Go Kamala!”
• Sujatha Srikanth from Sugarland, TX, said “VP Harris is articulate, thorough, wove facts and valid statistics into her answers at the debate. Her opponent merely repeated lies and didn’t really answer any question.”
• Rachita Bhatt, an attorney who excitedly watched the 2024 Presidential debate with her family in Metuchen NJ, said “Kamala Harris is the best Presidential candidate for women – her leadership and experience are exemplary. She will protect a woman’s right to choose – a criticality in basic healthcare access.”
• Jeena Ann Kidambi, a 9th grade social justice activist, watched with her mother and said the following about Donald Trump:
  • “What is he talking about?”
  • “How can he say he doesn’t have plans because he is not president? Isn’t the whole point of a campaign to get people to go along with your plans?”
  • “Maybe he wants to take my US government and politics class with me.” 

For additional community reactions to the debate, please visit www.desipresident.com/blog. 

The Indian American Impact Fund is proud of the enthusiastic response from our community members at debate watch parties across the country (pictures available upon request). South Asian Americans engaged in spirited discussions about the future of our nation and showed strong support for a leader who truly represents our values.

We encourage South Asian Americans to continue to mobilize, advocate, and ensure that Kamala Harris’s vision for an inclusive, progressive America is realized.

About Indian American Impact Fund:

The Indian American Impact Fund is dedicated to promoting and elevating the voices of Indian and South Asian Americans in the political and civic life of the United States. As the second-largest immigrant community and the largest Asian ethnic group, Indian and South Asian Americans are poised to be the decisive margin of victory in key races.

Since its inception in 2016, Indian American Impact Fund has endorsed and supported 166 candidates across the country, contributing to the historic rise of Indian and South Asian American representation in politics. Through strategic investments, grassroots organizing, and robust voter mobilization and policy advocacy efforts, Impact has marshaled upwards of $20 million, amplifying the voices of South Asian Americans and driving positive change in communities nationwide. By advocating for inclusivity, equity, and justice, we strive to build a more inclusive and equitable society.

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For Immediate Release:
September 10, 2024

Contact: Sarah Shah
sarah@iaimpact.org