When Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the US Congress in June 2023, he made a point of referring to Vice President Kamala Harris and her Indian heritage.

"There are millions here who have roots in India. Some of them proudly sit in this chamber and there is one right behind me, who has made history," he said, pointing at Harris, seated behind him on the dais.

"I am told that the Samosa Caucus is now the flavor of the House," Modi joked, referring to the handful of Indian American lawmakers who had adopted the savory Indian pastry as part of their caucus nickname. Harris' mother was born in India, and her father in Jamaica.

Between Modi's most recent visit and his upcoming trip this weekend, Harris has continued to make history by becoming the first Indian American to run for the highest office in the country.

In November, US voters will decide between her and former President Donald Trump.

Karthick Ramakrishnan of AAPI Data, an organization studying the political attitudes of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, said Harris' heritage is a sign that Indian Americans are a growing political force.

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Following in the footsteps of Dalip Singh Saund, the very first Indian American elected to Congress in 1957, there are now five Indian........

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