In the bustling streets of New Delhi, an unexpected face is making appearances on auto-rickshaws: U.S. President Donald Trump. These three-wheelers, often used for advertising local services like fertility clinics and English courses, now feature large images of Trump alongside the Statue of Liberty. Beneath these portraits, the slogan reads, ‘Happy Birthday America!’
Approximately 100 auto-rickshaws in India’s capital have adopted this new look. The campaign stands out among the routine ads plastered on vehicles throughout the city. This campaign, launched by Sergio Gor, the U.S. ambassador to India, aims to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American independence through cultural events and public outreach across various nations.
Announcing this initiative via social media, the U.S. Embassy stated, ‘Freedom is on the move … literally!’ and encouraged locals to spot these uniquely branded auto-rickshaws traveling throughout Delhi.
The initiative coincides with Washington’s efforts to mend relations with India, previously strained by Trump’s tariff policies that affected Indian exports adversely. Further highlighting this diplomatic push, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is anticipated to visit New Delhi soon.
For many auto-rickshaw drivers, though, the campaign holds little significance. Ganesh Kumar, a driver who agreed to display a Trump poster, was initially hesitant. He was persuaded only after receiving a reward. ‘They said, “Please let us put the poster. We’ll give you a packet of tea,”’ he recounted.
Another driver, Pradeep Kumar, accepted the advertisement due to his vehicle’s damaged canopy needing coverage. When asked if he understood the ad content, Kumar admitted, ‘I know he is Trump. Don’t know much other than that.’