Trump Backs Musk, Supports Skilled Worker Visa Program

In a surprising announcement, former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his support for billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk regarding the controversial H-1B visa program. This program allows companies to hire skilled foreign workers, primarily in technology fields.

Speaking to the New York Post, Trump voiced his full endorsement of the program, stating, "I have a significant number of H-1B visas in my properties. I support the H-1B program and have used it several times. It's a fantastic program."

The remarks followed a series of posts by Musk on social media, where the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX vowed to fight for the program, saying, "The reason I and many key individuals, who founded SpaceX, Tesla, and hundreds of other companies that made America strong, are here is the H-1B program. I will wage an unimaginable war to defend this cause."

Musk, a U.S. citizen born in South Africa, initially entered the U.S. on an H-1B visa. Tesla, his electric vehicle company, received 724 such visas this year. Typically, these visas are valid for three years, with options for extension or a path to permanent residency.

Trump's endorsement marks a notable shift from his earlier presidency, during which he sought to limit the use of such visas. His recent statements signal a possible recalibration of his stance on immigration and workforce policies as he gears up for the 2024 presidential race.