MAGA Responses to Diwali Celebrations Spark Outrage

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Hindu festival of Diwali was met with backlash on social media this week after FBI Director Kash Patel posted a celebratory message, provoking outrage among some political factions within the Trump administration’s base.

Patel shared his Diwali greetings on his X account, stating, “Happy Diwali—celebrating the Festival of Lights around the world, as good triumphs over evil.” His post included an image of traditional clay lamps known as diyas floating down a river.

This innocuous gesture drew a flood of nearly 3,000 responses, many of which were hostile. Some commentators expressed disdain for Patel’s Hindu faith, incorrectly labeling it as paganism and criticizing him for not endorsing Christianity.

“This is a Christian Nation. Check your foreigner stuff at the gate,” wrote John McGlone, an X user self-identified as an “unapologetic Christian American.” Others, including Scott Hambrick, suggested extreme measures such as deportation, responding to Patel’s message with a single-word comment: “Deport.”

As Patel was being criticized, prominent Hindu lawmakers, including Tulsi Gabbard and Nikki Haley, also faced similar vitriol. One user told Gabbard, “Get out of my country,” while another declared, “Diwali is un-American. Move to India.”

In stark contrast to the backlash, Donald Trump recognized Diwali during a press conference, extending greetings to all Americans celebrating the festival. He emphasized the occasion’s significance in bringing families together and fostering community spirit.

“To every American celebrating Diwali, may this observance bring abiding serenity, prosperity, hope, and peace,” Trump stated.

This conflict over Patel’s Diwali post illuminates ongoing tensions within U.S. political discourse regarding religious diversity and acceptance.