WASHINGTON, D.C. — On the eve of President Donald J. Trump’s visit to Detroit, two prominent Indian American leaders in Michigan have offered sharply contrasting messages, highlighting political divisions within the community over the president’s record and rhetoric toward the city.
Republican leader Sunny Reddy said he is sponsoring billboards across Michigan to welcome Trump during his visit, framing the effort as a show of support for the president and the state’s Republican Party.
“I wanted to share that I’m sponsoring billboards across Michigan to welcome President Trump to our state,” Reddy wrote in a social media post, adding that he was “proud to stand with Michigan Republicans.” Reddy was recently elected vice chairman of the Republican Party in Michigan.
A markedly different view was presented by Democratic Congressman Shri Thanedar, who represents a Detroit-area district and has been a vocal critic of Trump.
Recalling Trump’s previous visit to the city, Thanedar said the former president had disparaged Detroit. “The last time Donald Trump visited Detroit, he insulted our city, saying the whole country would end up like Detroit if Kamala Harris were elected,” Thanedar said.
Thanedar also challenged Trump’s economic claims, particularly on manufacturing and job creation, arguing that promises made to the region had not materialized.
“For the last eight months, we’ve lost 68,000 manufacturing jobs, and unemployment has hit a four-plus year high,” Thanedar said.
He further criticized rising living costs, saying everyday expenses have continued to climb for Americans. “Life in America is more expensive than ever,” he said, adding that Detroit “does not need any more of your insults or lies.”
Positioning himself as an advocate for working families, Thanedar said his focus remains on lowering costs and improving affordability in the city. “Detroit deserves better,” he said. “I’m fighting for you, Detroit. Fighting to bring your costs down and make life more affordable.” (Source: IANS)
