Trump Defends H-1B Visa Program, Emphasizing Need for Skilled Foreign Workers
The Trump administration has clarified its position on the H-1B visa program, highlighting the importance of skilled foreign workers for key industries while maintaining a commitment to protecting American jobs. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt outlined the President’s stance, following his remarks at a major investment forum.
Leavitt described Trump’s approach as “nuanced and common sense,” balancing the America First agenda with economic pragmatism. The administration acknowledges that foreign companies investing trillions in the U.S., particularly in specialized sectors like battery manufacturing, may initially need to bring in highly skilled workers. Trump reportedly told these companies, “you better be hiring my people if you’re going to be doing business in the United States.”
Trump also publicly defended the program at the US-Saudi Investment Forum on November 20, pushing back against criticism from within his MAGA base. He explained that large-scale projects, such as computer chip factories, require specialized expertise not always available domestically. He emphasized that bringing in skilled foreign talent for these projects is necessary to ensure success and labeled such investments as supportive of the MAGA agenda.
The administration’s refined stance reflects a practical recognition of global talent and supply chain demands while aiming to attract substantial foreign investment, ensuring U.S. industries remain competitive in advanced manufacturing and technology.
