They have a lot more money: Trump questions $21 million fund for voter turnout in India

DOGE cancels $21M fund for voter turnout in India, Trump criticizes decision due to India's high taxation rates.

Following the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) decision to cancel the $21 million fund marked for 'Voter Turnout in India', President Donald Trump said that India, with its growing economy and high taxation rates, does not need such financial support.

While he acknowledged his respect for India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr. Trump criticised the idea of funding voter turnout initiatives in the country.

While signing executive orders at Mar-a-Lago on Tuesday (February 18, 2025), Mr. Trump said, "Why are we giving $21 million to India? They have a lot more money. They are one of the highest taxing countries in the world in terms of us; we can hardly get in there because their tariffs are so high. I have a lot of respect for India and their Prime Minister, but giving $21 million for voter turnout?"

On February 16, DOGE posted a list of cancelled U.S. taxpayer-funded initiatives with a mention of $21 million earmarked for "voter turnout in India."

BJP's Amit Malviya took to his X to react to the announcement. "$21M for voter turnout? This definitely is external interference in India's electoral process. Who gains from this? Not the ruling party for sure!" his post read.