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American far-right political activist Laura Loomer appears to have undergone a striking shift in tone during her recent visit to India, one that comes even as her presence in the country has been met with sharp backlash.
Loomer’s invitation to the India Today Conclave 2026 triggered criticism online and within Indian American circles, with many questioning why a figure known for provocative and polarizing views was being given a platform. Journalist Mehdi Hasan was among those who publicly raised concerns, reflecting a broader unease about her participation.
That reaction is rooted in Loomer’s long-standing positions. She has been an outspoken critic of the H-1B visa programme, arguing that it disadvantages American workers, and has also taken hardline stances against mass immigration and Islam, views that have repeatedly drawn controversy in the US and beyond.
During her India visit, she reiterated some of these arguments, urging Indians to empathise with American students and workers whose job prospects, she claims, are being impacted by the visa system.
And yet, her on-the-ground experience in India, as shared through her post on X, struck a very different, almost admiring note.
Reflecting on her time in the country, Loomer wrote, “Honestly, as someone who has traveled a lot, India is the best country I have ever traveled to. It’s incredible.” She added that even after nearly nine days, she felt there was much more left to explore: “I will have been here for 9 days when I leave, and there is still so much to see and do.”
READ: India Today faces online backlash for inviting Laura Loomer to 2026 Conclave; Mehdi Hasan reacts (March 13, 2026)
She also pushed back against what she described as negative portrayals of India in Western media. “My experience has been amazing and India is portrayed negatively in the media as a place Amercians should avoid, but I realize a lot of that is completely made up,” she said, suggesting her visit had challenged her earlier assumptions.
Loomer went on to praise the country’s social and cultural fabric, writing, “The people, food, culture and hospitality culture are just incredible. I have felt safe and comfortable the entire time I have been here and India will truly be the next big super power.” She framed India as a country whose potential is often underestimated.
Emphasising the gap between perception and reality, she added, “This country has incredible potential and you have to see it yourself to understand because the media only makes it out to be 3rd world. That couldn’t be further from the truth.”
Her strongest praise, however, was reserved for the people she encountered. “Indian people are the nicest people I have ever met. I am very grateful for my time in India. I have enjoyed it so much and I hope I can come back every year,” she wrote.
READ: Tulsi Gabbard next to quit? Laura Loomer sparks buzz after Joe Kent exit (March 18, 2026)
Looking ahead, Loomer expressed interest in exploring more of the country. “Next time I want to visit South India. I have tried to do as much as possible these last 9 days but there is still so much to see and do,” she said.
Closing on a reflective note, she added, “All good things come to an end. I’ll be back (hopefully soon). I love India. My misconceptions have been corrected. I have nothing but nice things to say.”
