Will this get him more votes?
Former President Donald Trump suggested in a recent podcast that noncitizens graduating from U.S. colleges should automatically receive green cards along with their diplomas. This proposal, reminiscent of his 2016 campaign promises, aims to retain highly skilled individuals who contribute to the American workforce. Trump highlighted the loss of talent from prestigious institutions like Harvard and MIT as a concern, implying that current policies force many skilled graduates to leave the country.
Trump’s remarks came amidst a broader discussion about the need for high-skilled workers in the U.S., with podcast hosts, including immigrants themselves, advocating for easier immigration pathways for talented individuals. However, Trump’s proposal contrasts with his administration’s later policies that tightened visa regulations, making it challenging for skilled noncitizens to remain in the country.
In response to concerns about national security and immigration control, Trump’s campaign emphasized rigorous vetting processes for these skilled graduates. They proposed stringent criteria to ensure that only those who can significantly contribute to America’s economy and society would benefit from such a policy.
Beyond immigration policy, Trump reiterated controversial claims about migrants crossing the southern border, suggesting they come from jails and mental institutions, and alleging an increase in terrorist threats without substantiating these claims. His statements reflect ongoing themes in his campaigns, where immigration issues often take center stage, drawing criticism from opponents who label his rhetoric as divisive and unsupported.
Despite initial intentions to reform immigration towards a merit-based system, Trump’s administration also implemented executive orders freezing new visas for foreign workers, complicating the landscape for noncitizen professionals seeking to work or stay in the U.S. As Trump continues to campaign for reelection, his stance on immigration remains a polarizing topic, shaping public discourse and policy debates leading up to the elections.
