US Election 2024: America's Mini India in New Jersey! Who's Leading in this Democratic Stronghold?

U.S. elections-the Republicans and the Democrats almost neck to neck from the word go. Both are pretty aggressive in their campaigns and wooing Indian-Americans because, for both the parties, the community forms an indispensable part of their political mainstream.

New Jersey is being called "Mini India" as it has a substantial population of Indians. It has the highest population of Indian-origin people in the United States, with 4.6% of its population; Kamala Harris is leading in this election in New Jersey, indicating Indian-American voters are still voting for the Democratic Party.

Why is New Jersey important?

New Jersey was among the original 13 colonies and became part of the American Union in December 1787. It participated in all 59 presidential elections and, with such a huge population, had 14 electoral votes only next to Rhode Island. In the last eight presidential elections, the voters in New Jersey supported the candidates of the Democratic party.

In 2020, Joe Biden got 16% more votes here compared to Donald Trump, while this year, Kamala Harris is leading by a supposed 8%.

Why New Jersey Attracts South Asian Communities It has the highest concentration of South Asian elected officials compared to any other states, including its first Indian-American elected into the state legislature in 2001. Also, being in close proximity to New York City with ample job availability, mainly in the information technology sector, has attracted several Asians. Tax cuts and cheaper housing combined with the availability of good jobs in New York City have also led to many working in New York but residing in New Jersey. The Indian-American community voted. Second-phase voting ensured that these voters' preferences would indeed shape the outcomes in key battleground states such as New Jersey.