US Politicians Celebrating Diwali 2026: Trump, Governors, Senators, Congress Members and Mayors – Full List

Diwali 2026 in the United States | White House Celebrations | US Governors | Capitol Hill | Indian-American Community

Diwali 2026 has brought together American political leaders, elected representatives, governors, senators, mayors and administration officials to recognize the Festival of Lights. From President Donald Trump's White House Diwali celebration to governors hosting events at state capitols, Congress members visiting Hindu temples and city mayors lighting traditional diyas, the celebrations have reached government institutions across the United States.

Observed on November 8 in 2026, Diwali received recognition from political leaders across party lines. President Donald Trump participated in a traditional diya-lighting ceremony at the White House and issued a national Diwali message. Former Vice President Kamala Harris and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard also shared public greetings.

At the state level, governors including Brad Little, Jim Pillen, Greg Gianforte, Kelly Armstrong and Bob Ferguson hosted official Diwali celebrations. Other governors, including Gavin Newsom, Kathy Hochul, Abigail Spanberger, Mikie Sherrill, Jared Polis and Ned Lamont, extended greetings or participated in public recognition.

Members of Congress, including Cory Booker, Shri Thanedar, Ro Khanna, Ami Bera and other lawmakers, also participated in Diwali-related gatherings, temple visits and cultural events.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani joined the celebrations by sharing a Diwali video featuring traditional rangoli decorations and diya lighting.

This comprehensive guide presents a list of prominent US politicians celebrating Diwali in 2026, including documented events, official greetings, proclamations and community gatherings.

1. Donald Trump Celebrates Diwali 2026 at the White House

US President Donald Trump was among the most prominent American political figures participating in Diwali 2026 celebrations.

On November 6, Trump hosted a Diwali gathering at the White House Oval Office, where he participated in a traditional diya-lighting ceremony with Indian-American leaders and prominent personalities.

The event highlighted the importance of the Indian-American community and its contributions to American business, technology, government and public service.

Notable personalities at Trump's Diwali celebration

Reported attendees included:

• Donald Trump: President of the United States.
• Kash Patel: Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
• Marco Rubio: US Secretary of State, listed among the reported political attendees.
• Arvind Krishna: Chairman and CEO of IBM.
• Sanjay Mehrotra: CEO of Micron Technology.
• Jay Bhattacharya: Director of the National Institutes of Health.
• Vikas Khanna: Indian-American celebrity chef.
• Vishal Gondal: Indian technology entrepreneur.
• Vinay Mohan Kwatra: India's Ambassador to the United States.
• Arjun Mody: Social Security Administration Deputy Commissioner, mentioned in event coverage.

One notable moment involved entrepreneur Vishal Gondal presenting Trump with a copy of the Hanuman Chalisa.

The event reflected the continued importance of the White House Diwali tradition and its role in recognizing Indian-American cultural contributions.

Trump also issued an official presidential Diwali message on November 8, wishing Americans celebrating the festival hope, happiness and light.

The White House message highlighted the enduring symbolism of diyas, ancient traditions and the triumph of light over darkness.

2. Former Vice President Kamala Harris Extends Diwali Greetings

Former Vice President Kamala Harris has long been associated with Diwali celebrations through her Indian family heritage.

During her time as Vice President, Harris hosted celebrations at the Vice President's Residence and spoke about her childhood experiences celebrating Diwali with her mother and family.

For Diwali 2026, she joined other public figures in extending greetings to those celebrating the festival.

Her connection with Diwali is particularly meaningful to many Indian-American families because she has spoken openly about her Indian heritage and family traditions.

Her participation in earlier official celebrations helped increase awareness of Diwali across the United States.

3. Tulsi Gabbard Shares a Special Diwali 2026 Message

Tulsi Gabbard, former Congresswoman and Director of National Intelligence, shared a heartfelt Diwali greeting on November 7, 2026.

Her message emphasized the spiritual meaning of Diwali and the power of God's love to dispel darkness.

She wished everyone celebrating a joyful Diwali and highlighted the values of light, peace and happiness.

Gabbard's message was particularly notable because she has frequently spoken about her Hindu faith and its influence on her personal life.

Her Diwali greeting was widely reported alongside messages from other international political leaders.

4. US Governors Celebrating Diwali 2026 – Complete List

Governors across the United States recognized Diwali through official celebrations, public greetings, proclamations and state-level events.

The Pacific Northwest witnessed a particularly significant programme, coordinated with the Consulate General of India in Seattle.

Five governors hosted completed official celebrations between October 16 and November 4, with Oregon's sixth ceremony scheduled for November 10.

Governors who hosted official Diwali celebrations

These celebrations recognized Indian-American contributions to business, technology, healthcare, education and cultural diversity.

Other governors who issued Diwali greetings or recognized the festival

Gavin Newsom – California

Governor Gavin Newsom extended Diwali greetings to California residents on November 8.

His message highlighted hope, unity and the triumph of light over darkness: "To all families coming together to celebrate the Festival of Lights, may light triumph over darkness and may we continue to find hope and strength in one another. Happy Diwali, California!" He posted it on X with a short video in which he and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom celebrate Diwali.

California also has a new milestone: Governor Newsom signed AB 268 in October 2025, making Diwali a California state holiday beginning in 2026.

Kathy Hochul – New York

New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued an official recognition of November 8 as Diwali in 2026 and acknowledged the contributions of South Asian communities.

Gretchen Whitmer – Michigan

Governor Gretchen Whitmer was among the state leaders associated with Diwali greetings and recognition of Indian-American communities.

Abigail Spanberger – Virginia

Governor Abigail Spanberger shared a public Diwali greeting on November 8, wishing Virginia residents a joyful celebration.

Mikie Sherrill – New Jersey

Governor Mikie Sherrill shared Diwali wishes to residents of New Jersey and people celebrating around the world, highlighting joy and peace.

Wes Moore – Maryland

Governor Wes Moore has been associated with public recognition of Indian-American heritage and community celebrations. His Diwali-specific 2026 participation should be updated when a direct event or greeting record is available.

Brian Kemp – Georgia

Governor Brian Kemp has participated in public recognition of the Indian-American community and its cultural contributions. A specific 2026 Diwali event or greeting should be distinguished from earlier years' recognition.

Jared Polis – Colorado

Governor Jared Polis shared a Diwali greeting recognizing hope, renewal, family traditions and the triumph of light over darkness.

J.B. Pritzker – Illinois

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is among the state leaders associated with public recognition of Diwali and Indian-American communities.

Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton also shared Diwali greetings to people celebrating in Illinois and around the world.

Ned Lamont – Connecticut

Governor Ned Lamont attended Diwali celebrations at the Connecticut State Capitol on October 25, alongside Deputy Secretary of State Jennifer Barahona.

The gathering was organized with the BAPS community and celebrated faith, light and cultural connection.

Connecticut also has a significant legal recognition milestone: legislation signed in 2025 established Diwali-related state recognition and religious accommodation provisions.

Josh Stein – North Carolina

Governor Josh Stein issued a proclamation recognizing October 2026 as Hindu Heritage Month and November 8 as Diwali in North Carolina.

The proclamation acknowledged the contributions of Hindu Americans and recognized the festival's importance to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists.

These examples demonstrate the different ways governors recognize Diwali, from official ceremonies to public greetings and formal proclamations.

5. US Senators Celebrating Diwali 2026

US senators have also participated in Diwali celebrations, temple gatherings and cultural outreach events.

Several prominent senators were associated with the 2026 celebrations.

Cory Booker – New Jersey

US Senator Cory Booker participated in Diwali celebrations at the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham temple in New Jersey.

His participation highlighted the universal message of Diwali and the importance of bringing light into communities.

Jim Risch – Idaho

Senator Jim Risch attended the Idaho State Capitol Diwali celebration hosted by Governor Brad Little on October 16.

He spoke about the message of hope and the triumph of light over darkness.

Cynthia Lummis – Wyoming

Senator Cynthia Lummis participated in the September 9, 2026, Diwali gathering at the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill.

The event brought together lawmakers and Indian-American community representatives.

Other senators

Senators John Cornyn, Andy Kim and Tim Kaine have also been included in broader compilations of politicians associated with Diwali greetings and community engagement.

However, a specific 2026 event or greeting should be linked before treating each name as a confirmed participant in a particular celebration.

6. Indian-American Members of Congress Celebrating Diwali

Indian-American lawmakers have played an important role in bringing greater recognition to Diwali in Washington.

Their participation in cultural events has helped strengthen relationships between Congress and the Indian-American community.

Prominent Indian-American members include:

Raja Krishnamoorthi

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has been a prominent advocate for Indian-American representation and cultural recognition in Washington.

He has participated in Diwali-related congressional initiatives and community events.

Shri Thanedar

Congressman Shri Thanedar participated in the 2026 Capitol Hill Diwali celebration.

He joined other lawmakers and community representatives in recognizing the significance of the Festival of Lights.

Ro Khanna

Congressman Ro Khanna has publicly recognized Diwali and the contributions of Indian-American families.

He has also participated in cultural and community events celebrating Indian heritage.

Ami Bera

Congressman Ami Bera has been an important Indian-American representative in Congress and has supported cultural recognition and community outreach.

Pramila Jayapal

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal has been a prominent representative of South Asian American communities and their contributions to the United States.

Other members of Congress

Other lawmakers associated with Diwali-related activities, public greetings or community events in 2026 include:

• Sara Jacobs
• Deborah Ross
• Brian Fitzpatrick
• Dan Meuser
• Don Bacon
• Scott Perry
• Randy Fine
• Greg Landsman
• John James
• Brad Sherman
• Jim Costa

Their participation varied across congressional celebrations, temple visits, cultural events and other community activities.

For example, Congressman Don Bacon attended the Nebraska Governor's Mansion Diwali celebration, while Congressmen Randy Fine and Scott Perry visited a temple in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Congressman John James also visited a Swaminarayan temple in Michigan.

These activities illustrate the range of ways American lawmakers engage with Indian-American communities.

7. Diwali on Capitol Hill 2026: Congress Members Join Indian-American Community

One of the important Diwali-related gatherings in Washington took place on September 9, 2026, at the Dirksen Senate Office Building.

The event was organized by BAPS Public Affairs and partner organizations.

More than 300 Indian-American community members from across the United States participated.

The gathering included members of Congress, cultural organizations, business leaders and community representatives.

Organizations involved included:

• BAPS Public Affairs
• Hindu American Foundation
• Asian American Hotel Owners Association
• Federation of Jain Associations in North America
• Shrimad Rajchandra Mission Dharampur
• US India Security Council
• US Indian Community Foundation
• Indian American Relations Council

The celebration included traditional diya lighting and speeches highlighting Diwali's cultural and spiritual significance.

This annual Capitol Hill tradition provides an important opportunity for Indian-American organizations to engage directly with elected representatives.

8. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani Celebrates Diwali 2026

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was among the prominent local political figures who publicly celebrated Diwali in 2026.

On November 8, Mamdani shared a video featuring traditional Indian Diwali customs.

The video showed participants creating a colorful rangoli, decorating the entrance with marigolds and lighting rows of clay diyas.

The celebration included people wearing traditional Indian clothing and gathering around the decorated rangoli.

Mamdani shared the greeting:

"Wishing you a very happy Diwali, New York City."

The message was widely shared across social media and received attention from Indian-American communities.

His participation highlighted the cultural diversity of New York City and the importance of recognizing the traditions of its residents.

9. Other Mayors and Local Leaders Celebrating Diwali in America

Diwali celebrations expanded beyond the White House, state capitols and Congress.

Local governments also played an important role in recognizing the festival.

Washington State witnessed a coordinated series of municipal Diwali celebrations involving 22 cities and local jurisdictions.

Mayors and city council members participated in traditional lamp-lighting ceremonies inside council chambers.

Participating cities included:

• Bellevue
• Kirkland
• Auburn
• Tacoma
• Spokane
• Seattle
• Everett
• Marysville
• Tukwila
• Bothell
• SeaTac
• Issaquah
• Edmonds
• Lynnwood
• Kent
• Mukilteo
• DuPont
• Medina
• Duvall

Further events were scheduled in Snoqualmie and King County, alongside Seattle's city-level celebration.

These activities reflected the strong Indian-American presence in the Greater Seattle region.

Michigan also witnessed community recognition involving Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed and Speaker-elect Ranjeev Puri, who were mentioned among the state-level political figures participating in celebrations.

Local leaders' participation demonstrates that Diwali recognition is increasingly taking place at municipal and community levels.

10. Why Are American Politicians Celebrating Diwali?

There are several reasons why Diwali has become increasingly visible in American political and public life.

Growing Indian-American population

Indian Americans are an important part of the United States' cultural and economic landscape.

They contribute to technology, healthcare, engineering, finance, education, entrepreneurship and public administration.

Religious freedom and cultural recognition

Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists, with different religious and cultural traditions.

Public celebrations provide an opportunity to recognize religious freedom and cultural diversity.

Stronger India-US relationships

Diwali events bring together politicians, diplomats, business leaders and community representatives.

They help strengthen people-to-people connections between India and the United States.

Contributions to American society

Indian-American professionals and entrepreneurs have made important contributions to research, medicine, education, technology and business.

Political leaders use Diwali celebrations to recognize these achievements and engage with their communities.

11. Is Diwali an Official Holiday in the United States?

Diwali is not a nationwide federal public holiday in the United States.

However, several states and local governments have introduced legislation, proclamations or official observances recognizing the festival.

Some notable developments include:

• Pennsylvania: Governor Josh Shapiro signed Act 112 of 2024, recognizing Diwali as a state holiday.
• California: Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 268 in October 2025, making Diwali a state holiday beginning in 2026.
• Connecticut: Legislation signed in 2025 established Diwali-related state recognition and religious accommodation provisions.
• Washington: Senate Bill 6044 passed in February 2026, recognizing Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas as state observances, not legal holidays.
• North Carolina: Governor Josh Stein proclaimed November 8, 2026, as Diwali.
• Oregon: Governor Tina Kotek proclaimed November 8, 2026, as Diwali – The Festival of Lights Day.
• New York: Governor Kathy Hochul recognized November 8, 2026, as Diwali.

A proclamation or observance does not necessarily require government offices, banks, businesses or schools to close.

The legal status differs between jurisdictions.

12. The Significance of Diwali Recognition in American Politics

The growing recognition of Diwali represents an important development in America's multicultural public life.

For Indian-American families, Diwali is a time to celebrate faith, family, heritage and community.

For politicians, participation provides an opportunity to acknowledge the traditions of their constituents and recognize their contributions.

The lighting of a diya represents hope, knowledge and the triumph of good over evil.

These values have universal appeal and are increasingly being recognized in public ceremonies across the United States.

From the Oval Office to local city halls, Diwali is becoming an increasingly visible part of America's cultural calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions About US Politicians Celebrating Diwali 2026

1. Which US President celebrated Diwali in 2026?

President Donald Trump participated in a Diwali celebration at the White House Oval Office on November 6, 2026, and issued an official presidential Diwali message on November 8.

2. Did Donald Trump light a diya for Diwali 2026?

Yes. Trump participated in a traditional diya-lighting ceremony at the White House with Indian-American leaders and officials.

3. Which US governors celebrated Diwali in 2026?

Governors Brad Little, Jim Pillen, Greg Gianforte, Kelly Armstrong and Bob Ferguson hosted completed official celebrations in Idaho, Nebraska, Montana, North Dakota and Washington. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek had an event scheduled for November 10.

4. Did Kamala Harris wish Americans Happy Diwali in 2026?

Former Vice President Kamala Harris was among the public figures associated with Diwali greetings in 2026. She has also hosted official Diwali events during her vice presidency.

5. Did Tulsi Gabbard celebrate Diwali in 2026?

Tulsi Gabbard shared a Diwali greeting on November 7, emphasizing peace, joy and the spiritual message of light overcoming darkness.

6. Which US senators participated in Diwali celebrations?

Senator Cory Booker attended Diwali celebrations at the Akshardham temple, Senator Jim Risch participated in Idaho's governor-hosted event, and Senator Cynthia Lummis attended the Capitol Hill Diwali gathering.

7. Did Zohran Mamdani celebrate Diwali?

Yes. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani shared a Diwali video featuring rangoli, traditional lamps and a public greeting to New Yorkers on November 8, 2026.

8. Which US states hosted governor-level Diwali celebrations in 2026?

Idaho, Nebraska, Montana, North Dakota and Washington hosted completed events. Oregon was scheduled to host the sixth celebration on November 10.

9. Is Diwali a federal holiday in the United States?

No. Diwali is not a nationwide federal public holiday, although individual states and local governments have introduced different forms of official recognition.

10. Why do US politicians celebrate Diwali?

Politicians participate in Diwali events to recognize religious diversity, engage with Indian-American constituents, celebrate cultural traditions and acknowledge the contributions of South Asian communities.

Conclusion: Diwali 2026 Brings America's Political Leaders Together

Diwali 2026 has once again demonstrated how the Festival of Lights is becoming an increasingly recognized part of American public life.

President Donald Trump's White House celebration, Tulsi Gabbard's public greeting, governors hosting state-level events, senators participating in temple celebrations, Congress members attending Capitol Hill gatherings and mayors lighting diyas all reflect the growing visibility of Indian culture in the United States.

The participation of political leaders from different parties and levels of government highlights the importance of cultural understanding, religious freedom and community engagement.

For millions of Indian-American families, these celebrations are also an opportunity to preserve their traditions and introduce younger generations to the values of their heritage.

As Diwali continues to receive recognition from the White House, state capitols, Congress and city governments, the Festival of Lights carries its universal message of hope, knowledge, peace and prosperity to an increasingly diverse American audience.

Happy Diwali 2026! May the light of knowledge, peace, prosperity and happiness shine across every American home and community.

Follow HinduTone.com for the latest Diwali celebrations, Hindu festivals, temple news and Indian diaspora events from the United States and around the world.

Sources

• Governor Gavin Newsom on X, 8 November 2026
• Spectrum News: Newsom signs bill making Diwali a California state holiday (2025)

1. The White House – Presidential Message on Diwali, November 8, 2026.
2. Consulate General of India, Seattle – Historic Diwali celebrations across the Pacific Northwest.
3. North Carolina Governor – Hindu Heritage Month and Diwali Proclamation 2026.
4. ABP Live – US Midterm Candidates, Diwali Celebrations and Temple Visits.
5. Outlook India – World Leaders and Diplomats Extend Diwali Greetings.
6. Capitol Hill Diwali Celebration – September 9, 2026.
7. Zohran Mamdani's Diwali Greeting to New York City.

More on Diwali in America

• US politicians celebrating Diwali 2026
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• Trump celebrates Diwali at the White House
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• Diwali 2026 in the USA