Democrats gain Congress, raising concerns for US-India relations post-Trump.

The recent midterm elections have shifted the political landscape in the U.S., with Democrats gaining control of both chambers of Congress. This victory puts President Donald Trump’s administration under increased scrutiny, particularly regarding its foreign policy decisions. With ongoing tensions between the U.S. and its allies, including India, the implications of the election outcome could significantly affect future diplomatic relations.

The strained ties between New Delhi and Washington are rooted in several contentious issues. A stalled trade agreement, immigration restrictions, and disagreements over India’s purchase of Russian oil and weapons have complicated the relationship. While the U.S. had provided a waiver for an oil ban back in March 2026, the underlying tensions remain. The newly empowered Congress may seek to challenge Trump's protectionist measures, which could include tariffs and immigration policies that affect bilateral trade.

Trade is likely to be the first area of focus for Congress in relation to India. The interim framework discussed by Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year has yet to be formalized, leaving both nations at an impasse regarding market access. Experts like Shanthie Mariet D'Souza predict that lawmakers will push for stricter oversight on trade, particularly concerning environmental and labor standards, which might benefit India as its largest export market is the U.S.

Immigration remains a more complex challenge, especially with the Trump administration’s tightening of H-1B visa rules. The imposition of a $100,000 fee for certain new petitions has raised concerns among Indian tech professionals and companies that depend on this visa program. Although a Democratic majority may scrutinize these changes, experts caution that reversing them will not be straightforward. Legal immigration is not seen as a priority for voters, but the midterm results signal a potential shift in how immigration policies are approached, reflecting the ongoing complexities in U.S.-India relations.