In a recent Fox News interview, former President Donald Trump defended the use of H-1B skilled worker visas, stating that the U.S. doesn’t have enough domestic talent to meet certain job demands.
This statement stirred fresh debate on America’s immigration and labor policies, especially in industries requiring highly skilled workers.
Trump Says U.S. Lacks Certain Talents
When host Laura Ingraham questioned whether H-1B visas lower wages for American workers, Trump agreed in part but stood firm on the need for foreign talent.
“You can’t take people off an unemployment line and say, ‘I’m going to put you into a factory where we’re going to make missiles,’” he explained, highlighting that specific skills are required for complex jobs that not everyone in the U.S. workforce currently has.
Georgia Raid Used as an Example
Trump pointed to a major Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid in Georgia where hundreds of South Korean workers at a Hyundai facility were arrested and deported. He explained that these workers were experts in battery manufacturing — a task he described as “very complicated” and even dangerous due to risks of explosions.
“They had like 500 or 600 people… to make batteries and to teach people how to do it,” Trump said. “Well, they wanted them to get out of the country. You’re going to need that.”
Interestingly, Trump also said he was opposed to the Georgia raid, despite it being part of his administration’s own immigration enforcement efforts. Just weeks earlier, while visiting South Korea, he had said he disagreed with the decision to deport skilled workers from that factory.
New H-1B Visa Fee Announced
Trump’s comments came shortly after signing an executive order in September that added a $100,000 application fee for H-1B visas, making it much harder and more expensive for companies to hire foreign skilled workers.
This was part of a broader push from his administration to limit immigration and tighten U.S. visa programs.
What is the H-1B Visa?
The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. companies to hire foreign workers in specialty roles, especially in tech, engineering, and healthcare. It is valid for three years, with the option to renew for another three.
Supporters say it helps fill talent gaps and allows American companies to stay competitive globally.
Trump on Chinese Students and France
In another part of the interview, Trump was asked about Chinese students studying in the U.S. He said, “I actually think it’s good to have outside countries,” referring to international students.
When Ingraham pointed out that Chinese nationals “spy on us” and “steal our intellectual property,” Trump responded, “Do you think the French are better?” and added, “I’m not so sure,” suggesting he had doubts about both countries in different ways.
Trump’s latest remarks highlight the complex balance between protecting American jobs and acknowledging the country’s need for skilled labor from abroad. His support for the H-1B program — despite new restrictions and fees — shows that even within a tough immigration stance, there is recognition of certain economic realities.
As industries like tech and manufacturing continue to grow, the debate over who should fill those jobs is far from over.
FAQs
1. What did Trump say about the H-1B visa program?
Trump defended the H-1B visa, saying the U.S. doesn’t have enough skilled workers for certain industries, and foreign talent is needed.
2. Why did Trump mention the Hyundai raid in Georgia?
He used it as an example to show that skilled foreign workers were being deported despite their valuable experience, especially in battery manufacturing.
3. Did Trump support or oppose the Georgia ICE raid?
While the raid was conducted under his administration, Trump later said he was opposed to it during a trip to South Korea.
4. What is the new fee for H-1B visa applications?
Trump signed an executive action introducing a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications, making the process costlier for companies.
5. What are the main arguments for and against the H-1B program?
Supporters say it helps U.S. companies stay competitive and fill skill gaps. Critics argue it may lower wages and reduce opportunities for American workers.
