Washington: Former US President Donald Trump on Tuesday nominated Harmeet K Dhillon, an Indian-origin attorney, as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights at the US Department of Justice. The nomination highlights Dhillon's career-long dedication to civil liberties and constitutional rights.  

In his statement, Trump expressed confidence in Dhillon’s ability to lead. “Harmeet has consistently protected our cherished civil liberties, from challenging Big Tech for censorship to defending religious freedoms during COVID and fighting for fair election practices. She will enforce civil rights and election laws fairly and firmly,” Trump said.  

Dhillon, a graduate of Dartmouth College and the University of Virginia Law School, has built a reputation as one of the country’s top election lawyers. She is also a respected member of the Sikh community and previously clerked at the US Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals.  

Dhillon’s response to the nomination  

Expressing her gratitude, Dhillon said, “I’m extremely honored by President Trump’s nomination to assist with our nation’s civil rights agenda. It has been my dream to serve this great country, and I am excited to work with an incredible team led by Pam Bondi.”  

She also paid tribute to her family, saying, “I wouldn’t be here without my amazing mother and brother, and I honor the memory of my father, Tejpal, and husband, Sarv, who are not here to see this day. I hope to make them proud.”  

A strong voice for civil liberties  

Dhillon has been a vocal advocate for constitutional rights throughout her career, representing individuals and groups in high-profile cases. Notably, during Trump’s campaign in 2020, she performed the Ardas, a Sikh prayer, at the Republican National Convention, showcasing her cultural and religious values.  

ANI