World Immigration News

An online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump’s political coalition

Release Date: 2024-12-28
Media: AP News
Summary: A dispute has erupted among Donald Trump's supporters over immigration and the tech industry, highlighting internal divisions within his political movement. The conflict arose between the new tech-based wing of Trump’s support, including billionaires like Elon Musk and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, who advocate for more skilled immigrant workers, and hardline immigration factions within his Make America Great Again base. The debate began when right-wing provocateur Laura Loomer criticized Trump’s choice of Sriram Krishnan, an AI policy advisor, who supports increasing skilled immigration. Loomer argued this was not "America First" policy and accused tech executives of seeking to enrich themselves.

The debate grew, with figures like venture capitalist David Sacks and Musk defending the tech industry’s need for foreign workers. Trump has not yet addressed the dispute publicly, but his previous statements on immigration have shown contradictions. While he has long advocated for tough immigration policies, including limiting skilled immigration, he also suggested granting automatic green cards to foreign graduates of U.S. universities. Trump's movement reflects a split between those pushing for restrictive immigration and those, particularly in tech, seeking more foreign talent.
Tags: USA

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