Governors, lawmakers and public officials across the United States joined Indian-American communities in celebrating Diwali, lighting traditional oil lamps, visiting temples and sharing festive greetings as the festival of lights was observed across the country.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris extended her wishes to people celebrating Diwali. Several state leaders also marked the occasion, including Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont, who joined celebrations at the state Capitol.
California Governor Gavin Newsom shared a video message on X, highlighting the significance of the festival and its recognition in the state. “This is the first year Diwali will be celebrated as a California state holiday,” Newsom said.
In New York, Mayor Zohran Mamdani, dressed in a yellow kurta, took part in the traditional lamp-lighting ceremony alongside members of the Indian-American community.
Michigan Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed also joined the celebrations, alongside state Speaker-elect Ranjeev Puri.
Governors across states extend Diwali wishes
A number of governors across the country issued greetings to Indian-Americans and others observing the festival.
Those extending their wishes included New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, Colorado Governor Jared Polis and Illinois Governor JB Pritzker.
Former Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard also extended Diwali greetings.
Several senators joined in marking the occasion, including Cory Booker, John Cornyn, Andy Kim and Tim Kaine. Members of the House of Representatives, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Brian McCormick and Ami Bera, also shared festive messages.
The celebrations reflected the participation of public officials from different states and levels of government, as Indian-American communities gathered to mark the festival.
Trump hosts Diwali celebration at the Oval Office
The celebrations also included a special gathering at the White House. On Friday, November 6, President Donald Trump hosted a Diwali event at the Oval Office, where he lit a traditional lamp in the presence of entrepreneurs, chief executives and other prominent people of Indian origin.
The gathering included Indian-American business leaders and members of the administration, highlighting the community's presence in public life and business.
From state capitols and temples to the Oval Office, Diwali celebrations across the US brought together political leaders and members of the Indian-American community to mark the festival of lights.
