Vivek Ramaswamy, a well-known biotech entrepreneur and media favorite, recently announced his intention to join the 2024 US Presidential race this Friday (February 21) on the show ‘Tucker Carlson Tonight.’
As the second Indian American to participate in the Presidential election, Ramaswamy is poised to substantially impact the race.
Ramaswamy braced headlines with his criticism of “wokeism,” a term he uses to describe a perceived threat to American values. He has spoken out against the incorporation of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices in corporate structures, claiming that they are being used to enforce a particular ideology.
In his campaign announcement video, the 37-year-old Republican emphasized his belief in the ideals that once united Americans, pledging to revive them if elected. He also expressed his deep concern over the growing cultural divide in the country and promised to bridge the gap between different communities.
Check out the video here:
Ramaswamy’s life story is a testament to the American dream. Born to Indian parents who migrated from Kerala, Vivek spent his early years in Ohio. He attended Harvard University, where he studied molecular biology, and later obtained a law degree from Yale Law School. His entrepreneurial skills came to the forefront when he founded Roivant Sciences in 2014. This biopharmaceutical company uses the latest technological advances in drug research.
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Besides his biopharmaceutical venture, Ramaswamy has also co-founded Strive Asset Management, receiving support from high-profile venture capitalists such as Peter Thiel, Bill Ackerman, and JD Vance.
Ramaswamy’s political platform centers around a mission to “bring merit back” and reduce American dependence on China. He views China as the “greatest external threat to America” and seeks to reinvigorate the American spirit and identity. Ramaswamy made it clear that he wants to bring back the culture of merit in society and promote free speech, self-governance, and meritocracy if he becomes the president.
As he embarks on his presidential campaign, Ramaswamy faces an uphill battle against established politicians and a media ecosystem that is often hostile to his views. However, his unwavering commitment to his ideals and his track record of success make him a formidable contender in the race for the White House.
In recent years, the appointment of Indian Americans to high-profile positions has experienced a rapid surge, with Kamala Harris, the US Vice President, being the most prominent example.
Let’s take a look at other candidates in the race for U.S. Presidential Elections 2024.
Nikki Haley
Earlier this month, former US Ambassador to the United Nations and two-term former governor of South Carolina, Nikki Haley, declared her presidential candidacy. She stated her intention to run for the Republican Party’s nomination and challenge her former employer, ex-US President Donald Trump, in the upcoming elections.
Donald Trump
Last year in November 2022, former President Donald Trump announced his candidature for the 2024 Presidential Bid for a second non-consecutive term.
2024 Confirmed Candidates
So far, only 3 names have been registered for Presidential Bids.
All 3 candidates represent the Republican Party, and interestingly two of the three names, apart from Donald Trump, are of Indian origin – Nikki Haley and now Vivek Ramaswamy.
Are There Other Candidates?
No one from the Democratic Party has officially confirmed their candidacy. Even current President Joe Biden hasn’t announced his intention to join the Presidential Race, and going by his age (80), it is unlikely that he will run for re-election.
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There are popular names like Kamala Harris, Ted Cruz, and Pete Buttigieg who are expected to announce their bid to run for President.
Kamala Harris – She will be the most formidable candidate to date, and the President will almost certainly back her campaign. If Kamala flags off her campaign, she will be the third candidate of Indian descent.
Ro Khanna – Another politician of Indian descent, is rumored to be launching a bid for the presidency of the United States. The youngest of the four Indian-American members of the US House of Representatives is the Democratic Party’s congressman from California.
An Exciting Race Is Guaranteed
Before being included on the presidential ballot, Ramaswamy and Haley must win the Republican Party’s presidential primary, beginning in January 2024. The next United States presidential election will be held on November 5, 2024.
The 2024 US Presidential Election winner will be announced on January 20, 2025.
Featured Image Credit: AntonMatyukha /Depositphotos.com.