Donald Trump Appoints: Former U.S. President Donald Trump has made the headlines with the appointment of his close aide. And long-time loyalist Sergio Gor to the post of U.S. Ambassador to India. Not only has this raise debates in Washington, but it has also raised questions in New Delhi with many wondering whether the appointment serves as a carefully orchestrated diplomatic signal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Sergio Gor is a prominent Republican strategist, fundraiser, and co-founder of Winning Team Publishing, an organization that publishes books by Donald Trump and other conservative leaders. Gor is known for his steadfast loyalty to Trump and has over the years walked the political orbit with Trump, working through the campaigns and shaping conservative narratives.
Unlike career diplomats generally posted as ambassadors, Gor carries political credibility rather than foreign policy experience. His appointment is being read as Trump ensuring that U.S.-India relations will remain in the hands of somebody who shares his worldview and political instincts.
Strategically, India has always been viewed as an ally of the United States. Especially when the U.S. considers countering the growing dominance of China in the Indo-Pacific. Over the years, Trump has spoken of PM Modi in glowing terms as a very strong leader. “Howdy Modi” in 2019 in Houston — attracted crowds of Indian-Americans.
By sending a close loyalist in Gor, Trump might be trying to create consolidation on his personal friendship with Modi while indicating that India will remain a core priority of America’s foreign policy during his presidency.
The choice of Gor may carry multiple messages.
Strengthening Bonds: This points out to Trump valuing his personal chemistry with Modi. And wanting someone he trusts wholeheartedly to nurture those ties.
Political Leverage: The appointment may also speak to consolidating votes with Indian-American voters, who are perceived as influential in critical U.S. states.
Unconventional Diplomacy: The choice of a political appointee over a career diplomat shows Trump’s way of doing business, i.e., one rooted in personal loyalty and direct messaging.
The Indian government itself has not issued an official comment. But according to foreign policy circles, New Delhi would follow a pragmatic line. The Modi government has, in the past, always maintained cordiality toward Trump. But with a loyalist like Gor at the helm of diplomatic communication. Lines would remain direct and to the point, with less bureaucratic pull. Some analysts, however, express concern that Gor’s lack of diplomatic experience may become a hindrance during negotiations on more complicated policy issues.
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With U.S.-India relations growing in defense and technology and trade, the aim of the post will become relevant. If and how Gor can transform from political strategist to competent diplomat is a thousand-dollar question for which very few answers are available. One thing that can be put down is that the choice has as much to do with domestic politics as it does with foreign relations.+