In the wake of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam attack and Operation Sindoor, both countries have intensified their diplomatic efforts in Washington, DC. Key figures with close ties to US President Donald Trump have been brought in as lobbyists to influence global policy and garner support.
Jason Miller: India’s Lobbyist in the US
Jason Miller, a veteran political strategist and long-time Trump advisor, has been appointed as India’s lobbyist in the United States. Miller played a pivotal role in Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign as part of the communications team and later served as the chief spokesperson for the presidential transition. He returned as a senior advisor during Trump’s 2020 re-election campaign.
In 2021, Miller launched GETTR, a social media platform similar to Twitter (now X), which markets itself as a non-biased global network. He has openly supported Trump’s 2024 presidential bid, emphasizing his commitment to help re-elect the former president.
According to US Justice Department filings, Miller’s firm, SHW Partners LLC, will be paid a monthly retainer of $150,000 for lobbying services on behalf of India. His role includes strategic counsel, tactical planning, perception management, and public relations support. Miller’s close association with Trump could provide India with valuable diplomatic leverage.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has stated that hiring such firms is a longstanding practice under successive governments since the 1950s, conducted transparently and as per requirements.
Keith Schiller: Pakistan’s Lobbyist and Former Trump Bodyguard
On the other side, Pakistan has appointed Keith Schiller as its lobbyist in the US. Schiller, a former NYPD detective, began working with Trump in the early 2000s as head of security at Trump Tower and later served as Director of Oval Office Operations during Trump’s first term.
In December 2024, Schiller co-founded Javelin Advisors alongside George Sorial, Trump Organization’s former compliance chief. The firm has registered to assist Pakistan in forging long-term economic partnerships by strengthening ties with the US government and private sector.
Notably, Schiller was involved in high-profile moments during Trump’s presidency, including delivering the termination letter to FBI Director James Comey in 2017 and testifying before the House Intelligence Committee about an alleged incident during Trump’s 2013 Moscow visit.
Strategic Significance
The engagement of these Trump-affiliated lobbyists by India and Pakistan underlines the importance both countries place on influencing US policy amid a complex geopolitical environment. Leveraging personal connections with powerful figures in Washington allows each side to advocate for their respective narratives and strategic interests on the global stage.
