Lawmakers, including members of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), criticized President Donald Trump for making derogatory remarks about Indian and Chinese immigrants. They labeled his comments as racist, divisive, and dangerous. The politicians expressed deep outrage over Trump’s description of India and China as “hell-holes” and immigrants as “gangsters with laptops.”
CAPAC Chair Grace Meng and other lawmakers highlighted the alarming rise in hate incidents against South Asian communities and the negative impact of such rhetoric. They accused the President of fueling bigotry and normalizing hate towards Indian and Chinese Americans. The statement emphasized that all Americans, regardless of their heritage, deserve dignity and respect.
Congressman Ted Lieu condemned Trump’s remarks, drawing parallels to the historical mistreatment of Japanese Americans during WWII. He criticized Trump for insinuating that today’s immigrants lack loyalty, particularly targeting Indian and Chinese communities. Lieu, an immigrant himself, emphasized the valuable contributions immigrants make to the country.
Various political figures joined the criticism, denouncing Trump’s message as hateful and divisive. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Representative Pramila Jayapal defended Chinese and Indian Americans as integral members of society. They rejected Trump’s xenophobic rhetoric and reaffirmed the importance of birthright citizenship in America. The Hindu American Foundation also condemned the remarks, stressing the significant role of Asian Americans in the nation’s progress.
The controversy surrounding Trump’s comments underscores ongoing debates in the US on immigration, citizenship, and racial identity. Asian American communities, including Indian Americans, continue to face discrimination and hate, especially amid political tensions and polarization.
