Texas Senator John Cornyn Sparks MAGA Fury by Promoting 'Indian Century' Concept
Republican Senator John Cornyn of Texas found himself at the center of a political firestorm after sharing a New York Times podcast episode on social media. The podcast featured prominent Indian-origin scholar Amitav Acharya, who argued that India, not the United States or China, is the emerging superpower of the future.
Cornyn's Post Triggers Accusations of Treason and Calls for His Ouster
Cornyn posted the NYT opinion piece with the headline 'Welcome to the Indian Century,' but the move backfired spectacularly. MAGA supporters quickly labeled him a traitor and urged Texans not to vote for him in the upcoming primary election on March 3rd.
One critic wrote: "Welcome to the Indian Century. And people wonder why Dallas looks like New Delhi. You cannot call yourself a patriot and vote for Cornyn. If you’re a Texan, send him packing March 3rd."
Another commenter expressed disbelief: "I can’t imagine a politician of any other country promoting another country. Your policies have contributed to America’s decline. You should be ashamed of yourself."
A third user sarcastically remarked: "Cornyn does a great job of representing Ukraine, China & India," implying the senator was prioritizing foreign interests over American ones.
Acharya's Analysis of India's Global Rise and H-1B Visa Controversy
In the podcast, Amitav Acharya, a respected international relations scholar, discussed the shifting dynamics of the world order, emphasizing India's growing influence. When questioned about the H-1B visa program and allegations of an 'ethnic mafia,' Acharya defended Indian professionals.
He stated: "I can tell you that the Indian diaspora that gets H-1B visas are not taking any jobs from the kind of support base of President Trump. I think these are completely different levels of skill."
This comment was interpreted by some MAGA supporters as arrogant, suggesting H-1B visa holders were superior to American workers. The backlash occurred against a backdrop of rising anti-India sentiment in Texas, where Governor Greg Abbott has frozen H-1B hiring in state agencies and universities, and Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched investigations into three H-1B firms.
Local Political Turmoil Over Indian Immigration in Texas
The controversy has exacerbated existing tensions in Texas communities, where local city council meetings have become battlegrounds over issues of 'Indian takeover.' Recent meetings in Frisco, for instance, saw significant protests against Indian immigrants, reflecting deep-seated concerns about demographic changes and economic competition.
This incident highlights the volatile intersection of immigration policy, global power shifts, and domestic politics in the United States. As debates over H-1B visas and national identity intensify, figures like Cornyn face increasing scrutiny for their positions on international affairs and their implications for American workers.
