Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, and certain factions of the MAGA base have clashed over the future of skilled immigration, with Musk and Ramaswamy facing backlash for supporting H-1B work visas, which allow companies to bring in foreign workers with specialized skills.
President-elect Donald Trump has since endorsed expanding legal immigration, recognizing that skilled immigrants are essential to America’s global leadership and innovation. He understands that skilled immigration is not just a political issue—it's key to building a stronger America for all Americans.
The H-1B visa program does more than just bring talent to U.S. shores—this program has been a cornerstone of Silicon Valley’s growth and technological dominance over the world. Musk and Ramaswamy are right when they argue that the U.S. needs this influx of skilled immigrants to stay ahead in the global race for talent and is “essential for America to keep winning.”
Korn Ferry projects a global shortage of 85 million skilled workers by 2030, creating an $8.5 trillion talent gap. This is a challenge America cannot afford to ignore. Skilled immigrants play a crucial role in filling vital positions in sectors like technology, healthcare, and engineering, ensuring American businesses remain competitive on the world stage.
Moreover, immigrants are not just filling gaps—they are creating new opportunities. In fact, 44.8 percent of the companies on the 2023 Fortune 500 list were founded by immigrants or their children. These businesses show that when immigrants are given the opportunity to succeed, they contribute immensely to our economy.
Countries like Canada have already recognized the importance of skilled immigrants. In 2023, Canada launched its 'Tech Talent Strategy' to attract top global talent, and over 6,000 former U.S. H-1B visa holders moved there. If America doesn’t act soon, it risks losing more top talent to countries with more welcoming immigration policies.
Polling by the Independent Center shows that Americans understand the value of skilled immigration. Nearly half of the respondents believe that supporting foreign-born entrepreneurs strengthens the American Dream.
Skilled migration isn’t just an economic necessity—it’s a reflection of the values that have always defined us and made America great – a nation where anyone can achieve greatness, regardless of where they come from.
This is the essence of the American Dream. It’s about hard work, determination, and the belief that anyone—regardless of their background—can rise to the top. Skilled immigrants embody this spirit and are key to ensuring America’s continued success.
Vivek Ramaswamy puts it best: "Normalcy doesn’t cut it in a hyper-competitive global market for technical talent." America’s strength lies in its meritocratic culture, where achievement, excellence, and hard work are prioritized. Skilled immigrants are the embodiment of this ideal—and they are essential to keeping America at the cutting edge of innovation.
In the face of rising global tensions, especially with China, America must continue to attract the best and brightest minds. By doing so, we will not only ensure our economic prosperity but also continue to lead the world in innovation.
Political independents know that our immigration system is broken. Further polling conducted by the Independent Center notes that only 11 percent believe our immigration system is working, while 82 percent think we can do better. America needs leadership. Recognizing the crucial role of skilled workers is a viable place to begin.
Now is the time to embrace skilled immigration, secure the future of the American Dream, and ensure that America remains the land of opportunity for all generations to come.
