Indian American Voters Rally Behind Kamala Harris with "LOTUS for POTUS" Campaign

Indian American supporters of Vice President Kamala Harris have adopted a new slogan, "LOTUS for POTUS," to energize her presidential campaign. The term "Kamala" translates to "lotus" in Sanskrit, a flower that holds cultural significance across various South Asian religions. The campaign gained traction when pediatrician Dandekar created a meme linking Harris to the lotus, which quickly spread through WhatsApp and social media, resonating with the South Asian diaspora. The meme's popularity reflects a growing enthusiasm among Indian American voters, particularly as they identify with Harris's background and values. Dandekar noted that the meme sparked a wave of creativity, with others contributing their own graphics, including images of the lotus flower combined with the American flag and campaign slogans. This grassroots movement highlights the potential influence of the Indian American community, especially in key states like Arizona, where their numbers exceed Biden's 2020 victory margin. In a significant fundraising effort, a newly formed group called South Asian Women for Harris raised over $250,000 during a two-hour call, attended by around 4,000 women, including notable figures like actress Mindy Kaling and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. This mobilization comes at a critical time, as Biden's support among Asian American voters has declined since the last election. Dandekar emphasized the diversity within the South Asian community, asserting that they are not a monolithic voting bloc but rather a multifaceted group with varied interests and perspectives.