The Indian community in the United States is one of the largest immigrant groups, often celebrated for achieving the “American dream.” However, a recent survey conducted by the Carnegie Endowment reveals that many Indian-Americans are reconsidering their place in the country under President Donald Trump’s second term. A significant number have thought about leaving, with some citing factors like family issues and immigration obstacles.
Currently, there are over 5.2 million people of Indian origin living in the U.S. The survey indicates that many have a negative view of Trump’s administration, especially regarding his management of the economy and immigration policies.
Conducted in collaboration with YouGov from late November 2025 to early January 2026, the 2026 Indian American Attitudes Survey (IAAS) has an acceptable margin of error of ±3.6 percent.
### Considering a Move
The survey highlights a troubling trend: around 40 percent of Indian Americans have contemplated moving out of the U.S. About 14 percent of these individuals think about it frequently, while 26 percent do so occasionally. On the other hand, 37 percent said the idea has never crossed their minds, and 22 percent think of it rarely.
### Reasons for Leaving
The survey also explored why some Indian-Americans are considering leaving. The leading cause is dissatisfaction with U.S. politics, cited by 58 percent of respondents. Rising living costs follow closely behind at 54 percent. Other concerns include personal safety (41 percent) and the pursuit of better job opportunities abroad (25 percent). Family reasons and immigration challenges influenced 24 percent and 20 percent of respondents, respectively.
### Additional Insights
The survey revealed interesting political trends as well. While many Indian-Americans traditionally lean towards the Democratic Party, the report indicates a decrease in Democratic alignment since 2020, with a slight rise in support for Republicans. Despite widespread disapproval of Trump’s policies, this shift has not resulted in a substantial gain for Democrats among the Indian community.
Moreover, experiences of racism and discrimination have become more prevalent in the lives of Indian Americans, but the survey noted no significant increase in reported personal experiences of discrimination since 2020.
In summary, the survey sheds light on the evolving attitudes of Indian-Americans in the U.S., showcasing their concerns and reflections as they navigate life in a changing political landscape.
