Trump’s nominee of Indian origin makes biased claim about Roosevelt Hotel

NEW YORK: Indian-American Vivek Ganapathy Ramaswamy, nominated by US President-elect Donald Trump to enhance the performance of the federal government, has sparked controversy by spotlighting the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City. His remarks have drawn attention from American, Indian, and Pakistani communities alike.

Ramaswamy, a close associate of Vice President-elect JD Vance, made claims about the hotel, owned by PIA Investment, suggesting that New York City’s administration is paying $220 million in rent directly to the Pakistani government. However, this narrative has been criticized as biased and misleading. In reality, the lease will generate only $18 million in cash for PIA Investment, a semi-governmental entity, over a three-year term that started on May 15, 2023.

Critics argue that Ramaswamy should have thoroughly researched the hotel's ownership and lease terms before making his statement. New York City Mayor Eric Adams' administration has secured accommodations not just at the Roosevelt Hotel but at over 100 other hotels to meet the demand for 14,000 rooms to house immigrants. Many of these properties are owned by foreign corporations, including India’s Taj Group and Air India.

While Ramaswamy's role focuses on federal governance, his commentary on municipal financial matters has raised eyebrows. Observers note that his statement hints at potential political and financial challenges surrounding the Roosevelt Hotel in the future. It also underscores the complexities and tensions that could arise as various parties, both domestic and international, navigate the issue.