Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his anticipated visit to Washington, D.C. this week to speak before a joint session of Congress and attend a state dinner at the White House — an honor typically reserved for America’s most important allies. The visit was steeped in pomp, circumstance and messaging as the U.S. tries to woo India for increased trade and defense partnerships. But Modi’s visit also carried special weight in Central Jersey, where Edison and surrounding towns are a national hub for Indian immigrants. Edison Mayor Sam Joshi, who attended Modi’s speech to Congress as a guest of Rep. Frank Pallone (D-6th), said the warm reception for Modi has been a point of pride for Indian-Americans. But Modi is also a divisive figure for many in New Jersey, who associate him with exclusionary nationalism and anti-Muslim sentiment.
Indian Prime Minister Modi’s historic visit to Washington stirs NJ
Interview: Sam Joshi, Edison Mayor attended Modi's speech to Congress
Senior Correspondent
Joanna Gagis joined the NJ Spotlight News team in 2018. As a Senior Correspondent, her coverage includes education, health care, the environment, New Jersey politics and more.