21 U.S. Lawmakers Urge Trump to Reconsider Punitive Tariffs on India, Warn of Global and Strategic Fallout
A group of 21 American lawmakers has strongly urged President Donald Trump to reconsider the punitive tariffs he imposed on India, warning that the measures are producing negative consequences for both nations and jeopardizing crucial strategic and economic interests.
In a letter sent on Wednesday, the lawmakers stressed that the tariffs are pushing India to deepen ties with countries less friendly to the U.S., including China and Russia, potentially undermining America’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
This is especially concerning given India’s pivotal role as a stabilizing force in the Indo-Pacific through its participation in The Quad, alongside the U.S., Australia, and Japan, and as an essential counterbalance to China’s assertiveness,” the lawmakers wrote.
The letter, signed exclusively by Democrats, includes prominent members of the so-called “Samosa Caucus” — Ro Khanna (CA), Pramila Jayapal (WA), Raja Krishnamoorthy (IL), Shri Thanedar (MI), and Suhas Subramanyam (VA) — along with other signatories representing districts with large, vibrant Indian-American communities.
The lawmakers highlighted the deep familial, cultural, and economic ties these communities maintain with India.
The letter sharply criticized Trump’s 50 percent tariff on Indian goods, describing it as indiscriminate and economically damaging.
The lawmakers noted that while the tariffs hurt Indian manufacturers, they also raise costs for American consumers, disrupt supply chains, and undermine U.S. businesses that rely on India for critical inputs in sectors such as semiconductors, healthcare, and energy.U.S.-India trade is exceptionally important, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs in both countries.
American firms investing in India gain access to one of the fastest-growing consumer markets, while Indian investments in the U.S. create jobs and economic opportunities across our districts,” the lawmakers wrote.
Beyond economic concerns, the letter emphasized India’s growing importance as a strategic and defense partner.
Joint military exercises, collaboration on maritime security, and cooperation in energy markets are critical for regional stability and for upholding the U.S.’s reputation as a reliable ally.
Given the depth and breadth of U.S.–India cooperation — spanning defense, regional security, energy markets, innovation, and supply chain resilience — our nation must reaffirm its commitment to India.
Strategically, economically, and reputationally, the path forward demands recalibration, not confrontation,” the letter concluded, urging Trump to review the tariff policy and maintain ongoing dialogue with Indian leadership.
The letter reflects a growing sentiment among well-meaning U.S. policymakers and influential Indian-American communities that the unjustified imposition of exorbitant tariffs threatens not only economic growth but also long-term strategic alliances.
Observers worldwide have criticized Trump’s trade policies, emphasizing that cooperative engagement — rather than punitive measures — is vital for global stability.
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