H-1B Visa Controversy Divides U.S. Political and Tech Leaders

As Donald Trump prepares for his second term, debates intensify over the role of H-1B visas in the U.S. workforce, with tech leaders and lawmakers clashing over economic and cultural impacts.

President-elect Donald Trump, along with advisors Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, has voiced strong support for expanding the H-1B visa program, citing its importance in attracting top global talent.
Critics, including Senator Bernie Sanders, argue that the program undercuts American workers by allowing companies to hire cheaper foreign labor, often replacing U.S. employees in the process.
Indian professionals remain the primary beneficiaries of the H-1B visa program, receiving the majority of the 85,000 visas issued annually, which has fueled broader debates about immigration policies and economic priorities.
The appointment of Indian-born Sriram Krishnan as Senior Policy Advisor for Artificial Intelligence in the Trump administration has reignited tensions, particularly within Trump's base, over immigration and job displacement concerns.
Lawmakers, including Indian American representatives, are split on reforming the program, with some advocating for increased visa caps and protections, while others push for tighter regulations to prioritize American workers.