Indian-American Congressman Amish Shah Advocates for Congressional Control Over Tariffs Amid Rising Hate Against Indians

Washington, November 12 (Daily Kiran) : Congressman Amish Shah, the newly elected representative for Arizona’s First Congressional District, is advocating for Congress to regain control over tariff regulations to enhance India-U.S. relations. Speaking to a group of Indian journalists, Shah emphasized that reducing costs should be a primary focus of his work in Congress.

He expressed his commitment to joining the “India Caucus” and suggested that resolving tariff disputes could significantly improve relations between Washington and New Delhi. Shah noted that tariffs have been a major factor in the recent strain on the bilateral relationship, impacting not just India but also the U.S.’s ties with other nations.

“Congress should have the authority to impose tariffs, not the President,” Shah stated, asserting that reclaiming this constitutional power could foster better relations between the two countries. He highlighted concerns raised by the Indian-American business community, who have reported that the frequent imposition and removal of tariffs have adversely affected their operations.

Shah shared an example from his campaign, recalling a conversation with a pizza shop owner who explained that rising tomato prices due to tariffs forced her to increase her pizza prices. He stressed that ordinary Americans should not have to bear higher costs for their daily needs. Shah intends to prioritize the repeal of tariffs and strengthen Congress’s role in this matter.

In addition to economic concerns, Shah expressed alarm over the growing hostility and racial comments directed at Indians in the U.S., noting that he has never witnessed such animosity before in his lifetime. He lamented the negative impact of these sentiments, especially given the Indian-American community’s long-standing contributions to entrepreneurship, job creation, and various sectors of the economy.

Shah reflected on the distressing nature of such remarks and the fear they instill within the community. He recalled experiences from his time at Northwestern University, where he felt the weight of similar comments directed at students supporting their football team.

He also pointed out that some candidates for public office have made disparaging remarks, leaving many Indian-Americans feeling isolated and fearful. Shah emphasized the responsibility of elected representatives to stand with the community, denounce hate, and raise their voices against it publicly. He suggested that legislative measures should be considered to enhance security where necessary.

Shah raised the issue of safety at religious sites, referencing a recent incident during Navratri at the Balaji Temple in Aurora, Illinois, where a significant disaster was narrowly averted. “No one should feel unsafe while visiting a place of worship,” he asserted, framing the issue as one of public safety, not just a community concern.

Reflecting on his family’s roots in India, Shah shared that his ancestors hailed from Gujarat. His mother moved to Mumbai during her childhood, while his father’s family settled in Kochi, where they began a business in tea and spices. Shah’s mother attended the Milwaukee School of Engineering in 1969, supported by a sponsor, a kindness she has always remembered as it opened new opportunities for their family in America.