With Joe Biden stepping out of the 2024 presidential race, all eyes are now on Kamala Harris, who has swiftly gained the backing of some of the biggest names in Democratic politics—including billionaire George Soros and his son, Alex. But beyond the headlines, there’s a deeper story that could have far-reaching consequences, especially for India.
In American politics, wealthy donors like George Soros don’t just write Cheques—they often play a significant role in shaping the political agenda. Their financial support can come with expectations that their priorities will be reflected in the policies of the candidates they back. For instance, a donor like Soros, who has invested millions into causes promoting democracy, human rights, and progressive values, might expect a candidate to advance similar issues once in office.
This influence is not always direct or overt, but it can manifest in several ways. Big donors often gain access to policymakers, where they can advocate for specific policies or suggest appointments that align with their interests. They might also fund think tanks, advocacy groups, and media campaigns that push certain narratives or policy ideas into the mainstream, creating a broader environment conducive to their goals.
But how will this political funding to Harris impact India and Modi? Soros has been openly critical of Modi’s policies, particularly concerning democracy and human rights in India. He has raised serious concerns about Modi’s approach to governance, highlighting issues like religious freedom and civil liberties. So, would Kamala find herself under significant pressure to align with the values and goals that George Soros has championed for decades? Given Soros’ outspoken criticism of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his concerns about the state of democracy and human rights in India, it’s worth considering how this could translate into U.S. foreign policy if Harris wins the presidency.
Could Harris, under Soros’ influence, take a tougher stance on Modi’s government? Might we see increased U.S. involvement in India’s internal politics, particularly around issues that Soros has criticized, such as religious freedom and civil liberties? And what might this mean for the strategic partnership between the U.S. and India, which has been crucial in counterbalancing China’s influence in the region?
While it’s impossible to predict the exact impact, the backing of a major donor like Soros suggests that certain issues could gain prominence in a Harris administration. For Modi and his supporters, this could mean navigating a more challenging relationship with the U.S., where human rights and democratic principles could become points of contention.
As the 2024 race unfolds, the world will be watching not just the candidates, but the forces behind them. The influence of big donors like Soros on Kamala Harris could have ripple effects far beyond U.S. borders, potentially reshaping the geopolitical landscape and testing the resilience of international alliances.