Vivek Ramaswamy's Rise and the Stirrings of American Isolationism
As the United States embarks on its presidential race, one unexpected standout has emerged: Vivek Ramaswamy. At the recent Republican debate in Wisconsin, this young Indian American took the spotlight and was declared the winner. His rise in American politics has garnered attention not only for the Indian American diaspora but also for the undercurrent of isolationism in American politics.
From an Indian perspective, Ramaswamy's ascent is tempting to celebrate as a political triumph for the Indian diaspora in the U.S. However, it's important to recognize that he is not the only Indian American on the Republican stage. The likes of Nikki Haley, former governor of South Carolina, also shared the spotlight. This is indicative of the growing influence of the Indian diaspora, which holds key positions in various countries worldwide, especially in the Anglo-Saxon world.
Ramaswamy's rise within the Republican Party sheds light on the current political dynamics in the U.S. Despite facing numerous legal challenges, former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence within the party. This phenomenon hints at the ongoing transformation in U.S. politics, which could have far-reaching consequences, including implications for India.
What sets Ramaswamy apart is his unabashed support for Trump, whom he calls the "greatest U.S. President of the 21st century." While some may find his loyalty to Trump cringe-worthy, it's a strategic move to tap into Trump's massive following within the Republican Party. Ramaswamy seems to be playing the long game, aiming to cultivate conservative American values like faith, family, individual freedom, and small government.
Ramaswamy is also a vocal critic of "wokeism," illegal immigration, and reservations for minorities in educational institutions. He embraces "America-First" nationalism and aligns with American isolationism, a sentiment that found resonance during Trump's presidency. This isolationist stance entails opposition to alliances, withdrawal from multilateral institutions, and a transactional approach to international relations.
For instance, on the issue of Ukraine, Ramaswamy's priorities differ from the mainstream. He proposes a deal with Russia, allowing them to retain territories in Ukraine in exchange for ending their alliance with China, which he views as the greatest threat to the U.S. He even suggests a conditional commitment to defending Taiwan, which could change after he makes America self-sufficient in semiconductor production.
Ramaswamy's foreign policy stance leans toward the U.S. encouraging its allies to take care of their regional security while assisting them in building up their military capabilities. This reflects a core principle of American isolationism – focusing on consolidating American dominance over the Americas rather than intervening in global conflicts.
While Ramaswamy's chances of becoming the next U.S. President remain uncertain, his ideas should not be dismissed lightly. President Trump was driven by similar principles, and the recent years have witnessed unexpected changes in U.S. foreign and economic policies. The world should closely monitor the potential return of American isolationism, as it could significantly impact global geopolitics.
From India's perspective, Ramaswamy's support for deepening the strategic partnership is commendable. However, it's equally crucial for India to understand the broader implications of his isolationist worldview. This shift in American policy could reshape the dynamics of Eurasia and the Indo-Pacific, marking a departure from the internationalist and interventionist policies that Indian elites have been accustomed to dealing with.