Democratic Representative Ro Khanna has condemned far-right provocateur Nick Fuentes for his repeated attacks on Indian-American Republicans, particularly Vivek Ramaswamy and Usha Vance.
Democratic Representative Ro Khanna has publicly criticized far-right commentator Nick Fuentes for what he describes as a troubling pattern of attacks against prominent Indian-American Republicans, including entrepreneur and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy and Usha Vance.
Khanna’s remarks came in response to Fuentes’ rhetoric aimed at Ramaswamy, which has focused on his Hindu faith and Indian heritage. Khanna characterized these comments as “chilling” and indicative of a broader trend of extremist politics in the United States.
In a post on X, Khanna stated, “Nick, your campaigning against Vivek Ramaswamy because he is Hindu & of Indian heritage to send a message to JD Vance in 28 is chilling. I reject your bigotry against Vivek & Usha Vance. Many Hindu Americans, including my family, love celebrating Christmas. Merry Christmas.”
Khanna’s condemnation followed a series of incidents where Fuentes escalated his attacks on Ramaswamy, employing racial slurs and derogatory terms such as “anchor baby.” Fuentes has also suggested that Ramaswamy should be disqualified from running for governor of Ohio.
In his post, Khanna directly countered Fuentes’ assertion that a Ramaswamy governorship would end Christmas celebrations at the Governor’s Mansion. He emphasized that this claim was not only misleading but also ignorant, highlighting that many Hindu Americans do celebrate Christmas, reflecting the diverse fabric of American society.
Fuentes, known for his far-right views, framed his criticism as a matter of electoral importance, arguing that Ramaswamy’s faith disqualifies him from office. He stated, “Could you imagine? No nativity, no Christmas carol, no consecration at the altar of Christ, no reverence for the newborn king! What a world! He has to be denied next year.”
During a recent podcast, Fuentes again resorted to racially charged language while discussing the Ohio election. He reiterated his use of the term “anchor baby” and expressed his willingness to support any alternative candidate, stating, “This anchor baby cannot become the governor of Ohio. I don’t care if it’s a Jewish woman who wins,” in reference to Democratic candidate Amy Acton.
The term “anchor baby” is widely recognized as derogatory, referring to children born in the United States to immigrant parents, despite the fact that birthright citizenship is protected under American law. Fuentes argued that a Ramaswamy victory would set a dangerous precedent, asserting, “What kind of message would that send? That sends a message that you can say and do anything to white people; they’ll tolerate any level of disrespect.”
These comments emerged shortly after Vice President JD Vance publicly rebuked Fuentes for targeting his wife, Second Lady Usha Vance. Vance responded bluntly, telling Fuentes to “eat s–t” following the attacks on Usha, who is the daughter of Indian immigrants.
Vivek Ramaswamy, who is of Indian descent, has consistently spoken out against racism and antisemitism. During a recent speech at AmFest, he emphasized that American identity should be rooted in shared values and ideals rather than ancestry or lineage.
Despite the backlash, Fuentes has continued to escalate his rhetoric, portraying Ramaswamy and his family as outsiders who fail to assimilate. He suggested that they should “go back to India,” while mocking their Indian heritage and religious background. Fuentes declared, “If you want to live here, give an ounce and a shred of respect to the people that built this country.”
Khanna’s condemnation of Fuentes highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding race, identity, and politics in America, particularly as they pertain to the experiences of Indian Americans in the political landscape.
According to The American Bazaar, the situation continues to evolve as these discussions gain traction in the public sphere.