US lawmakers and governors from both the Democratic and Republican parties have extended greetings to India on its 80th Independence Day, praising the country’s global rise and highlighting the expanding strategic partnership between India and the United States.

The messages, compiled by the Consulate General of India in Seattle ahead of Independence Day celebrations, also recognised the contributions of the Indian-American community across the US.

The year 2026 marks not only India’s 80th year of independence but also eight decades of diplomatic relations between New Delhi and Washington. Several US leaders described the relationship as increasingly important for economic growth, technological innovation, national security and global stability.

US Lawmakers Praise India-US Partnership

US Senator Maria Cantwell congratulated India and described it as one of the world’s largest and most vibrant democracies. She highlighted India’s contributions to science, technology, education, culture and the global economy.

Cantwell said the India-US relationship continues to deepen, driven by shared democratic values and a common commitment to innovation and opportunity.

Representative Adam Smith called the bilateral relationship “incredibly important right now”, saying closer cooperation between the two countries could contribute to a more peaceful, prosperous and stable world. He also praised Indian Americans for their contributions to education, business, technology and innovation.

Representative Michael Baumgartner, who visited India last year, said strong ties between India and the US were increasingly important for global peace and stability. He also pointed to shared national security challenges faced by the two countries.

Indian-American Community Praised

Several lawmakers highlighted the role of Indian Americans in strengthening economic, cultural and educational ties between the two countries.

Representative Kim Schrier noted that both India’s 80th Independence Day and the 80th anniversary of India-US diplomatic relations were being marked this year. She praised the Indian-American community for its contributions to Washington state’s educational, cultural and economic life.

Representative Suzan DelBene similarly highlighted the community’s role in driving innovation, economic growth and cultural diversity across the Pacific Northwest.

Representative Dusty Johnson called India “the world’s largest democracy” and said the US benefits from its relationship with India and the contributions of more than five million Indian Americans. He also congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi on becoming India’s longest continuously serving prime minister.

Governors Extend Independence Day Greetings

Governors from several US states also sent messages celebrating India’s Independence Day.

Montana Governor Greg Gianforte praised the Indian and Indian-American community for enriching the state through innovation, education and community engagement.

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy described the occasion as a milestone reflecting courage, determination and self-governance, while recognising Indian Americans’ contributions to healthcare, education, businesses and the state economy.

South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden congratulated India and expressed hope that the friendship between the two countries would continue to grow.

The messages underscore broad bipartisan support in the US for strengthening ties with India, with technology, trade, innovation, economic cooperation and security emerging as key areas of the increasingly important bilateral relationship.