Former acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf, speaking on Newsmax TV’s Wake Up America on Monday, called for reforms to make it easier for foreign students educated in the United States to stay and contribute to the economy. Wolf advocated for a merit-based system, arguing it would benefit the nation to prioritize skilled graduates over the current lottery-based visa system and nationality quotas.
Co-host Marc Lotter highlighted the perspective of figures like President Trump, Elon Musk, and Vivek Ramaswamy, who have stressed the importance of retaining foreign students educated at prestigious U.S. institutions. Lotter noted that many students return to their home countries, including economic competitors like China and India, instead of using their skills within the United States. He emphasized the value of encouraging these individuals to stay and apply their knowledge in American companies.
Wolf agreed, stating that the current system makes it difficult for foreign students to remain in the U.S. after completing their education. “A lot of these students that come here, they get educated here, would like to stay here and start businesses. And I think that’s a good thing for the U.S. economy. And we make it very hard for them to do that,” Wolf said. He explained that many talented graduates are forced to return to their home countries, where they start businesses that could have otherwise benefited the U.S. economy.
Wolf emphasized that reforming the system to focus on merit would help retain the best and brightest talent. “We want to make sure that we retain that best and that brightest here in the United States. Allowing them to finish their studies and get that high degree, that advanced degree, in many instances, and stay here in the United States, we should be encouraging that,” he stated.
Supporters of a merit-based system argue that such changes would strengthen the U.S. economy, foster innovation, and maintain the nation’s competitive edge. The conversation reflects broader debates on immigration reform and its role in shaping economic policy.
Sources:
- Chad Wolf’s comments on Newsmax TV
- Discussions on U.S. immigration policy and merit-based reforms
