Washington D.C.: US President Donald Trump expressed his support for the H-1B visa program during a press conference on Tuesday, stating that he welcomes competent people from across various professions, including technology, hospitality, and other fields. This marks a significant stance on the controversial foreign guest worker visa, which is used to bring skilled workers, especially in the tech sector, to the US.
Trump’s Stance on H-1B Visas
During the press conference, Trump highlighted that he appreciates “both sides of the argument” when it comes to the H-1B visa but stressed the importance of bringing in individuals with skills and competence. He clarified that the visa program should not only cater to high-tech professionals but also to other essential roles such as waiters, wine experts, and maître d’s.
“We want competent people coming into our country. I use the programme myself,” Trump said, referencing the H-1B program. He further added, “People like Larry Ellison (Oracle CTO) need engineers. NASA needs engineers like nobody’s ever needed them.” This indicates that Trump’s support extends beyond the tech sector, highlighting the need for qualified professionals in various industries.
H-1B Program Support and Opposition
The H-1B visa has long been a subject of debate, even among Trump’s own supporters. While figures like Elon Musk back the program for attracting qualified professionals, others argue that the influx of foreign workers may take away job opportunities from American citizens.
Trump’s statement seems to support the idea that foreign workers contribute to business growth, which in turn benefits the American economy. “By doing that, we’re expanding businesses, and that takes care of everybody,” he emphasized.
Trump’s Controversial Birthright Citizenship Order
While Trump supports H-1B visas, his stance on birthright citizenship has shifted dramatically. On the first day of his second term, he signed an executive order titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” which strips birthright citizenship from children born in the US to temporary visa holders, including those on H-1B visas.
This means that children born in the US after February 20, 2025, to parents with temporary status, will not automatically be granted American citizenship unless at least one parent is a US citizen or a green card holder. This decision has far-reaching implications for families of foreign workers in the country.
Conclusion
President Trump’s remarks on the H-1B visa program underscore his commitment to ensuring that competent and highly skilled workers can contribute to the US economy across multiple industries. However, his radical stance on birthright citizenship raises questions about the future of immigrant families and the impact on American citizenship policies.