Minority politics unarguably play a role in U.S. elections and representation, as evidenced by the courting of African-American and Jewish voters in times of election and the activism of minority interest groups on political issues. The Indian-American community in the U.S. though has only begun to use its political voice or organize a united approach to politics as other minority interest groups have. Obstacles that this minority ethnic group must face in exercising political influence include its small numbers, divided factions within those numbers, and presently a lack of significant historical precedent as to how the group should maneuver to pursue political objectives. Indian-Americans have begun to mobilize, however, and in addition to establishing national-level interest groups and voter education centers many local successes have been attained which Indian-American communities throughout the U.S. can seek to emulate. One such example can be found in the 4th district of Georgia, a majority-minority district in which an incumbent Democratic candidate Cynthia McKinney lost in the primary against Denise Majette, the latter having the support of the Indian-American community in the area. Although other organizations and voting groups are credited for the victory of Congresswoman Majette, Indian-American supporters demonstrated a unified effort and an early, organized response in the competition which indicates the continuing maturation of Indian-American politics. This new activism and organized fundraising within 4th district has caused political actors such as Congresswoman Majette to recognize the importance of this group and represent their interests.
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