KKN Gurugram Desk | U.S. President Donald Trump has openly expressed his support for the H-1B visa program during a recent White House press conference, emphasizing its role in bringing skilled professionals to the United States. Speaking alongside prominent business leaders such as Oracle CTO Larry Ellison, SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Trump highlighted the growing demand for expertise in sectors like technology and beyond.

Trump addressed the ongoing debate around the H-1B visa system, which allows U.S. companies to hire highly specialized foreign workers in fields such as technology, healthcare, and engineering. While critics argue that the program reduces job opportunities for American workers, Trump stressed that attracting competent professionals is essential for economic growth and innovation.

“I like both sides of the argument,” Trump remarked during the press conference. “But I also like very competent people coming into our country, even if that involves training others who may not have the same qualifications. And I’m not just talking about engineers but people at all levels.”

The President also shared his personal experience with the H-1B program, stating that he has used it for hiring various roles, including maître d’s, wine specialists, and skilled waitstaff. According to Trump, this program enables businesses to access top-tier talent, ensuring they remain competitive in the global economy.

Technology Sector’s Reliance on H-1B Visas

The discussion prominently featured the technology industry’s reliance on the H-1B program. Business leaders like Larry Ellison and Masayoshi Son have been strong advocates for policies that make it easier to hire skilled global professionals. With advancements in artificial intelligence, software development, and other emerging technologies, the demand for specialized talent has reached unprecedented levels.

Trump emphasized the importance of supporting industries like technology, which rely heavily on H-1B visa holders. He noted that leaders like Ellison and Son require highly qualified engineers to maintain their competitive edge in the global market.

“We need the best people,” Trump stated. “Larry needs engineers, Masa needs engineers—they need them like nobody’s ever needed them before. This program ensures we bring in that kind of talent.”

Divided Opinions on H-1B Visa

Despite Trump’s support, the H-1B visa program remains a contentious issue within his support base. Advocates like Elon Musk argue that the program bolsters the U.S. economy by bringing in top talent to drive innovation and growth. On the other hand, critics claim that it reduces job opportunities for American workers and impacts wage levels negatively.

This divide reflects broader national debates on immigration and work visas. Some favor stricter policies to protect local workers, while others emphasize the need for global talent to sustain economic progress.

Trump’s Balanced Approach to Immigration

President Trump’s comments reflect an attempt to balance the economic benefits of skilled immigration with concerns about its impact on local workers. He reiterated the importance of maintaining high standards in immigration policies while ensuring that the U.S. remains a hub for innovation and business growth.

“Our focus is on quality,” Trump emphasized. “We want to grow businesses and foster innovation while maintaining fairness in our immigration system. The H-1B program is an essential tool for bringing exceptional talent into the country.”