Sunday, 29 December 2024

Trump Sides with Elon Musk in H-1B Visa Debate Amid Supporter Backlash

US President-elect Donald Trump has voiced his support for the H-1B visa program, reigniting debate within his MAGA base. In an interview with The New York Post, Trump stated, “I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I’ve been a believer in H-1B. I have used it many times. It’s a great program.”

The H-1B visa program allows highly skilled foreign workers to immigrate to the US to fill specialized jobs.  During his first term, Trump’s administration attempted to restrict the program, though these measures were ultimately struck down in court. 

The topic has deeply divided MAGA supporters. Tech mogul Elon Musk, born in South Africa and obtained Canadian citizenship through his mother, came to the US as a foreign student and later worked on an H-1B visa. He strongly defended the program, citing its role in fostering innovation at SpaceX and Tesla. “The number of people who are super talented engineers and super motivated in the USA is far too low,” Musk said, adding, “I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend.”

Vivek Ramaswamy, who will co-lead Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, also called for reforms to the program, suggesting a merit-based system to “select the best of the best” and eliminate bureaucratic inefficiencies.

Critics opposed the program, arguing it undermines American workers. 

As the debate rages, Trump’s support for H-1B visas signals a potential shift in his administration’s approach to skilled immigration.

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