President-elect Donald Trump has reignited controversy within his own coalition by defending the H-1B visa program, which allows highly skilled foreign workers to immigrate to the U.S. Trump’s comments, published in The New York Post on Saturday, mark a significant departure from his previous hardline stance on immigration and have already sparked backlash from his staunch anti-immigration supporters.
“I’ve Always Liked the Visas”
In the interview, Trump expressed strong support for the H-1B program, citing its importance to American businesses and even acknowledging its use in his own ventures.
“I’ve always liked the visas. I have always been in favor of the visas. That’s why we have them,” Trump said.
He added, “I have many H-1B visas on my properties. It’s a great program.”
Though Trump’s companies have primarily employed workers through the H-2B program for temporary, lower-skilled roles, his businesses have also used H-1B visas for high-skilled workers, most recently in 2022.
Backing Musk and Ramaswamy
Trump’s defense of H-1B visas comes days after tech mogul Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy—Trump’s pick to lead the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency—vocally supported the program. Musk, who immigrated to the U.S. on an H-1B visa, passionately argued for its necessity, stating on social media,
“The reason I’m in America along with so many critical people who built SpaceX, Tesla, and hundreds of other companies that made America strong is because of H-1B. I will go to war on this issue the likes of which you cannot possibly comprehend.”
Ramaswamy, an outspoken advocate for streamlining government processes, echoed Musk’s sentiments, highlighting the economic value of skilled immigration. Their comments have drawn fierce criticism from MAGA loyalists, who see the program as undermining American workers.
Backlash From MAGA Base
Trump’s shift has sparked a sharp backlash among his anti-immigration supporters. Former Trump aide Steve Bannon called the H-1B program a “scam” on his podcast, while figures like former Rep. Matt Gaetz and far-right commentator Laura Loomer condemned Trump for aligning with Musk and Ramaswamy.
Bannon and others argue that the program allows companies to hire foreign workers at lower wages, displacing American employees—a stance Trump himself championed during his first term. In 2016, Trump accused companies of abusing the H-1B program, stating it was used to “substitute American workers at lower pay.”
A Shift in Immigration Policy
Trump’s defense of H-1B visas marks a notable departure from his earlier policies. As president, Trump restricted access to the program multiple times, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, as part of a broader effort to curb legal immigration. His 2024 campaign, however, hinted at a softer stance, with Trump suggesting he would consider granting legal status to foreign-born workers who graduate from U.S. universities.
This pivot may signal Trump’s willingness to court the tech industry and high-skilled immigration advocates as he prepares to take office for a second term.
Economic and Political Stakes
The H-1B program allows 65,000 highly skilled workers into the U.S. annually, with an additional 20,000 visas granted to those with advanced U.S. degrees. Proponents argue that it helps American companies maintain competitiveness and drives economic growth. Critics, however, claim it undercuts wages for American workers and enables corporate abuse.
Trump’s comments have placed him in the middle of this polarizing debate, alienating parts of his base while aligning him with influential figures like Musk.
Closer Ties With Musk
Trump’s defense of the program underscores his growing rapport with Musk, who has become an influential ally. On Friday, Trump posted a private message on social media inviting Musk to visit his Mar-a-Lago estate. The tech mogul, who has defended Trump in public forums, appears to be playing an increasingly significant role in shaping the president-elect’s policy outlook.
What’s Next?
Trump’s position on H-1B visas will likely remain a flashpoint within his coalition, testing his ability to balance the competing interests of his MAGA base and the broader business community. With Musk and Ramaswamy standing firm in their defense of skilled immigration, Trump’s comments may signal a recalibration of his immigration policies to reflect a more pragmatic, business-friendly approach.
As Trump prepares to take office, his stance on H-1B visas could be an early indication of how he plans to navigate the often contentious intersection of economic growth and immigration reform.