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In a recent interview with the New York Post, Donald Trump expressed strong support for the H-1B visa program, which allows U.S. companies to hire foreign workers in specialized fields such as technology and engineering. Trump’s remarks came as he aligned with Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, a vocal advocate for the program.
“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,” Trump said.
Trump’s stance marks a notable shift from his earlier criticism of the program. During his presidency, he implemented the “Hire American” policy aimed at tightening restrictions on H-1B visas to prioritize highly paid or highly skilled applicants. Yet, he has also previously relied on the program for staffing his businesses.
The discussion over H-1B visas intensified after Musk took to social media to defend the program. Musk, a naturalized U.S. citizen who once held an H-1B visa, described it as essential for addressing workforce shortages in the tech industry.
Musk’s comments followed criticism from far-right activists who opposed Trump’s appointment of Sriram Krishnan, an Indian American venture capitalist, as an adviser on artificial intelligence. Activists argued that Krishnan’s role might influence immigration policy in ways they perceive as unfavorable.
Musk responded to these critiques by drawing a distinction between legal and illegal immigration. “We need to fix what’s broken in our immigration system, not dismantle programs that help American industries thrive,” Musk stated.
Trump’s support for the visa program has exposed fractures within his conservative base. Hardline immigration advocates, including figures like Steve Bannon, have argued that the H-1B program undermines wages for American workers and poses a threat to national identity.
Bannon criticized the tech industry for relying on what he called “imported labor” and suggested it runs counter to Trump’s “America First” vision. On the other hand, tech leaders, including Musk, contend that the program is vital for addressing talent gaps in fields critical to economic growth.
The H-1B program allows companies to hire foreign workers for an initial three-year period, with options for extensions or applications for permanent residency. In 2023, Tesla alone obtained 724 of these visas. Proponents argue the program fills gaps in specialized industries where domestic talent is insufficient. Critics, however, claim it undercuts wages and job opportunities for American workers.
The debate highlights broader tensions within U.S. immigration policy, balancing economic demands with nationalistic priorities. As Trump re-emerges as a political force, his stance on H-1B visas could signal how his policies will evolve amid competing pressures from his base and business allies.
