On his second day in office, President Donald Trump addressed the H-1B visa program, acknowledging both sides of the contentious debate while emphasizing the need for “competent people” to contribute to the U.S. workforce. Speaking at a White House press event with CEOs Larry Ellison (Oracle), Masayoshi Son (Softbank), and Sam Altman (OpenAI), Trump described the importance of skilled immigration for economic growth while refraining from endorsing an expansion or reduction of the program.
“I like both sides of the argument,” Trump said, acknowledging his supporters’ concerns about the impact of H-1B visas on American workers. However, he underscored the importance of bringing in “competent people” at all levels, from engineers to service staff like waiters and wine experts. Trump suggested that skilled immigration fuels business expansion, benefiting the broader economy.
Trump’s nuanced stance reflects the rising political pressure surrounding employment-based visa programs. Critics argue these programs disproportionately favor lower-wage foreign workers over highly qualified Americans, particularly in the tech sector. Kevin Lynn, founder of U.S. Tech Workers, noted the growing frustration among U.S. professionals displaced by foreign workers, particularly those from India and China, who dominate Silicon Valley.
More than 70% of Silicon Valley’s workforce is now foreign-born, with Indian and Chinese workers often prioritized under the H-1B program. Critics allege that nepotistic hiring practices and corporate cost-cutting have marginalized American talent, eroding innovation and fostering workplace challenges. Reports from American professionals describe systemic barriers, including caste-based hierarchies and preferential treatment for foreign workers, making it harder for Americans to compete.
Trump’s comments contrast sharply with his strong opposition to illegal immigration. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to deporting illegal migrants with criminal records, distinguishing between the need for competent legal migrants and the enforcement of immigration laws.
As the H-1B debate intensifies, advocates for reform call for overhauling the legal immigration system to prioritize American workers while ensuring that immigration programs align with long-term national interests. Incremental changes may lead to comprehensive reform, Lynn suggests, with the goal of striking a balance between economic growth and protecting domestic jobs.
