For decades, the United States has served as a beacon for ambitious minds, especially those of Indian origin, who have risen to prominent roles across industries. Known as “model minorities,” Indian-Americans have not only conquered boardrooms but also reshaped policy discussions. And now, a new wave of Indian-origin leaders is making its mark at the highest echelons of U.S. politics and governance.
Sure, we’re familiar with tech giants like Satya Nadella and Sundar Pichai redefining Silicon Valley, but names like Vivek Ramaswamy, Harmeet Dhillon, and Sriram Krishnan are expanding that narrative from innovation hubs to government halls. So, what exactly do their resumes look like?
Vivek Ramaswamy: From Biotech Boardrooms to Bureaucratic Breakthroughs
Vivek Ramaswamy’s career reads like the dream of every aspiring entrepreneur. With a Yale law degree and a reputation as a biotech wunderkind, Ramaswamy made his mark by founding Roivant Sciences and reshaping the pharmaceutical landscape. But why stop there? In a surprising twist, President Donald Trump has appointed him to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—yes, alongside Elon Musk.
Together, Ramaswamy and Musk will be working to streamline government operations, proving that sometimes the best way to fix bureaucratic bloat is to let visionaries run wild (within reason, of course). His blend of corporate success and policy ambition could very well redefine government “efficiency” in ways that sound less like paperwork and more like a masterclass in disruption.
Harmeet K. Dhillon: A Legal Powerhouse for Civil Rights
If there’s anyone who knows how to play hardball in legal circles, it’s Harmeet K. Dhillon. The Stanford Law alum is a seasoned litigator and founder of the Dhillon Law Group. Known for her fiery presence in political and civil rights cases, Dhillon has earned her stripes as both a fearless advocate and an astute legal mind.
Trump’s nomination of Dhillon as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights signals a significant shift in the Department of Justice’s civil rights landscape. With her at the helm, the role will likely see a blend of tough legal oversight and robust debate, especially in areas of free speech and individual liberties.
Kash Patel: A National Security Maverick on the Brink of History
Kash Patel’s resume screams “national security insider.” From working in counterterrorism at the National Security Council to serving as chief of staff to the acting Secretary of Defense, Patel has been a go-to strategist for some of the toughest security challenges the U.S. has faced.
Now, Patel is on the verge of making history as the first Indian-American FBI Director, succeeding Christopher A. Wray. His nomination underscores a shift towards a leadership style that prioritizes operational readiness and bold decision-making. If confirmed, Patel’s expertise will shape the future of federal investigations at a time when cybersecurity and domestic threats dominate the nation’s concerns.
Jay Bhattacharya: From Pandemic Researcher to NIH Trailblazer
If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s that medical experts can become household names. Enter Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, a Stanford-trained epidemiologist and economist known for his controversial yet data-driven takes on pandemic policies.
Now tapped by Trump to lead the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bhattacharya will be steering one of the most influential medical research agencies in the world. His appointment signals a renewed focus on challenging conventional public health narratives and prioritizing research transparency. Expect him to be both celebrated and scrutinized in equal measure as he reshapes NIH priorities.
Sriram Krishnan: The AI Architect in Washington’s War Room
Sriram Krishnan may have started as a tech wunderkind at companies like Facebook and Twitter, but his influence has always been destined for something bigger. Known for his expertise in social media infrastructure and venture capitalism, Krishnan is stepping into the role of White House AI Advisor.
Teaming up with former PayPal COO David Sacks, Krishnan’s job is to navigate the tricky waters of AI policy—balancing innovation and regulation while keeping America ahead in the global AI race. His tech-savvy approach and insider knowledge of Silicon Valley dynamics make him a key player in shaping the future of how the U.S. handles artificial intelligence, particularly as AI ethics and legislation become hot-button issues.