Donald Trump has recently sided with technology leaders like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy in a heated debate over the H-1B visa program, which brings skilled workers to the U.S. While Trump had previously criticized the program during his first term, he has now expressed support for it in the Saturday conference, claiming he has always been in favor of it and has used it for his businesses.
The debate was sparked by a controversial X post from Ramaswamy, where he blamed U.S. culture for companies hiring foreign workers. He argued that American culture values mediocrity over excellence and that foreign workers boost the economy. This statement led to backlash from some of Trump's supporters, who oppose the H-1B visa program. Ramaswamy later clarified that he believes the system is broken and should be replaced.
Trump echoed his support for the visa program, saying, “I have many H-1B visas on my properties. I’ve always been a believer in H-1B. It’s a great program.” However, this stance has triggered a division within the Republican Party, with some conservatives like Nikki Haley and far-right supporters strongly criticizing the H-1B visas.
Meanwhile, Elon Musk, a vocal supporter of Ramaswamy’s views, defended the program, emphasizing that it brings in top engineering talent. Critics, however, argue that it undermines U.S. wages and fills jobs with less qualified workers, instead of benefiting U.S. citizens.
The H-1B visa program currently issues 65,000 visas annually, with an additional 20,000 for those holding advanced degrees from U.S. institutions. Most visa recipients come from India, and the program remains a focal point in the ongoing debate over immigration policy in the U.S.
