US Lobbying Firms Engage with Indian Embassy Amid Political Ties
Lobbying Efforts by Mercury Public Affairs
Mercury Public Affairs, an American lobbying firm, disclosed that it facilitated a social media message from President Donald Trump congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi for becoming India's longest-serving prime minister in June. This was part of their ongoing contract with the Indian embassy, as reported by a local news outlet.
Understanding Lobbying in US Politics
Lobbying in the United States involves efforts by individuals or groups to sway decisions made by government officials in legislative, executive, or regulatory matters.
Following Trump's re-election in January 2025, the Indian embassy in Washington engaged two prominent lobbying firms, both linked to Trump's close associates.
Details of the Lobbying Contracts
One of the firms, Mercury Public Affairs, entered into a contract for a monthly fee of $75,000 (approximately Rs 70 lakh), with Bryan Lanza, who served as the communications director for Trump's transition team.
A presidential transition team is established by a president-elect to prepare for assuming control of the executive branch of the US government.
Susie Wiles, who is currently Trump's chief of staff, was also a registered lobbyist with Mercury until late 2024.
Compliance with the Foreign Agents Registration Act
The firm reported its retainership to the US Department of Justice in accordance with the Foreign Agents Registration Act, which mandates transparency for those lobbying on behalf of foreign entities.
The second firm hired by the Indian embassy was SHW Partners LLC, led by Jason Miller, a Trump aide. The contract with Miller involved a monthly payment of $150,000 (around Rs 1.4 crore).
Scope of Work and Activities
SHW Partners LLC's responsibilities included providing strategic advice, tactical planning, and assistance with government relations on policy issues relevant to the US government, Congress, state governments, and other stakeholders.
Additionally, the firm organized communications between New Delhi and senior US officials in May, prior to Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit to India.
Events and Political Engagements
SHW Partners LLC also coordinated two embassy events with Rubio on May 23 and 24, during his visit to India for the 'America@250' events hosted by the US embassy.
During this time, Miller was also present in New Delhi, as reported.
Concerns Raised by Political Figures
In response to the news, Congress Media Coordinator Harmeet Kaur questioned the value of the Indian government's expenditure of $225,000 (over Rs 2.1 crore) monthly on American lobbying firms.
Kaur expressed skepticism about the necessity of a paid congratulatory post from the US president, highlighting the implications for Indian taxpayers.
$75,000 a month for lobbying.
— Harmeet Kaur K 🇮🇳 (@iamharmeetK) November 7, 2026
Another $150,000 a month for access to Washington.
And even Trump's congratulatory post on @X to Narendra Modi which Modi gleefully responded and the whole BJP's ecosystem including "certain news anchors" labelled it Vishwaguru moment, appears in…