Trump allies clash over the H-1B visa program, igniting tensions within the upcoming administration. Vivek Ramaswamy, tapped to lead Trump’s cost-cutting initiatives, defended the program on X while criticizing American cultural attitudes.
“Our American culture has venerated mediocrity over excellence,” Ramaswamy urged, praising skilled overseas workers. Trump’s anti-immigrant followers and far-right influencers swiftly reacted negatively to his statement, escalating the existing immigration controversy.
Ramaswamy’s arguments were bolstered by Elon Musk, co-director of Trump’s planned “Department of Government Efficiency,” who said that H-1B visas draw great talent worldwide. Musk compared the United States to a successful sports club that needs its top players to be competitive. However, in response, detractors pointed out that Musk’s firms’ job postings displayed average pay, which they claimed lowered wages for American workers.
Opposition to Ramaswamy’s stance came from prominent Republicans, including Nikki Haley, Trump’s former U.N. ambassador. “We should be investing and prioritizing in Americans, not foreign workers,” Haley wrote, refuting claims about cultural shortcomings and emphasizing U.S. strengths.
Far-right activist Laura Loomer amplified criticism, directing racist accusations against Sriram Krishnan, an Indian-born advisor in Trump’s AI team. Loomer accused Trump of betraying his “America First” agenda, claiming Musk influenced appointments that undermined Trump’s vision.
Furthermore, Loomer’s allegations led to further scrutiny of Musk, who defended his support for skilled immigrants while denying claims of censorship on his platform, X. Despite criticism, Musk remained firm in supporting the visa program as essential for maintaining the U.S. technology sector’s dominance.
Addressing concerns about his relationship with Musk, Trump denied any undue influence from billionaires backing his campaign. At AmericaFest, Trump dismissed claims he ceded authority to Musk, asserting his independence.
The H-1B program caps annual visas at 65,000, with additional allocations for advanced-degree holders. Recent reports indicate that 73% of recipients are Indian nationals. However, during his previous term, Trump had tightened visa eligibility and vowed stricter immigration enforcement. As Trump allies clash over H-1B visa program it, highlights the deep divides among his allies as the administration takes shape.
