The White House has defended former President Donald Trump’s stance on the H-1B visa program, describing it as a “nuanced and common-sense opinion.” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump supports the temporary use of foreign workers, particularly to help start high-tech manufacturing projects in the U.S. However, he ultimately wants these jobs filled by American workers.
Leavitt explained that Trump welcomes foreign employees to initially help set up operations requiring specialized skills, such as battery production or semiconductor manufacturing. However, the long-term goal is for American workers to take over these roles once the facilities are operational. She emphasized that Trump expects foreign companies investing in the U.S. to hire American citizens in the long run.
Trump recently clarified that it is unrealistic to expect high-skill factories, like those producing computer chips, to be staffed straight away by unemployed Americans without necessary expertise. He acknowledged that thousands of foreign workers might be needed at the start, and he would “welcome those people.” He also admitted that his remarks may not sit well with some conservative supporters.
This position has sparked discussion among Republicans and conservative leaders, some of whom are advocating for the elimination of the H-1B visa program. The administration noted that a new $100,000 application fee for H-1B visas aims to prevent misuse of the system. The fee is intended to protect American jobs from being displaced by lower-paid foreign labor. Despite opposition and legal challenges, Indian nationals continue to receive the majority of approved H-1B visas in recent years.
