Vivek Ramaswamy: Hindu Biotech Entrepreneur Shaking up GOP in Bid for Presidential Nomination

Vivek Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur and Republican presidential candidate, is gaining support in a party traditionally dominated by conservative Christians. Currently in third place in many polls, behind former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Ramaswamy is the second Hindu presidential candidate in US history, following Tulsi Gabbard who ran as a Democrat in 2020.

Ramaswamy's campaign is built on ten core beliefs, including the belief that "God is real" and "There are two genders." He gained popularity with his book "Woke Inc: Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam," which criticizes corporations for using social justice causes to further their own interests.

He has also appeared as a commentator on Fox News and other conservative media outlets, expressing his support for capitalism and meritocracy, while criticizing affirmative action, mask mandates, and open borders. Ramaswamy is anti-abortion and believes that gender dysphoria should be treated as a mental illness.

He has expressed support for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, both of whom have implemented policies that have divided their respective countries. As he vies for the Republican nomination, Ramaswamy has been actively leaning into his faith, recognizing the importance of evangelical Christian support within the party.

He emphasizes the commonalities between his Hindu faith and the Judeo-Christian values on which the nation was founded. Despite some skepticism from Christian voters, Ramaswamy believes he has more in common with people of all faiths than with those who have no faith at all.

Raised in a Hindu household, he was deeply influenced by the teachings of Hinduism while also embracing the anti-abortion stance during his time at a Catholic high school and learning a strong Protestant work ethic from his piano teacher.

While some Christians have criticized Ramaswamy's faith, he has garnered support from influential Christian leaders who appreciate his "common sense values and shared virtues." However, his candidacy has divided Hindu Americans and Indian Americans, who tend to vote Democratic and hold progressive views on social issues.

Some are concerned about his attempt to package Hinduism in a way that appeals predominantly to Abrahamic faiths, while others see his candidacy as a significant shift in American politics. Ramaswamy's campaign reflects the growing political diversity within the Hindu community and has drawn attention due to his unique position in the Republican Party.

While he still faces challenges due to the lack of understanding about Hinduism among most Americans, his candidacy is seen as inspirational for Hindu Americans who are proud of their heritage and values. To continue his success, Ramaswamy must distinguish himself from the front-runners of the GOP and demonstrate why this is his moment, much like Queen Esther in the Bible who was chosen to save the Jewish people.