Trump's Unexpected Shift on Skilled Immigration

Washington, USAThu Nov 20 2025
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President Donald Trump, known for his tough stance on immigration, recently surprised many by advocating for the entry of skilled immigrants into the U. S. He believes these immigrants can train American workers in high-tech industries, a move he insists aligns with his "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) philosophy. During a speech at the U. S. -Saudi Investment Forum, Trump emphasized the need for skilled immigrants to teach Americans how to manufacture computer chips. He argued that this approach would quickly enhance the skills of U. S. workers, allowing the immigrants to eventually return home. This stance has sparked debate, particularly among Trump's conservative supporters. Last week, Trump clashed with Fox News host Laura Ingraham over the issue. Ingraham expressed concern about bringing in large numbers of foreign workers, but Trump countered by stating that the U. S. needs talented individuals to fill critical roles. Trump's comments drew mixed reactions. While some applauded his pragmatic approach, others criticized it as inconsistent with his usual hardline immigration policies. Despite the backlash, Trump remained firm, arguing that his detractors, though patriotic, misunderstood the need for skilled immigration. He highlighted the complexity of modern manufacturing, stating that it's unrealistic to expect unemployed Americans to immediately fill these specialized roles. Trump pointed to the example of Hyundai's electric vehicle plant in Georgia, where South Korean workers were initially detained but later allowed to return. He intervened to prevent their deportation, demonstrating his support for skilled immigration in specific contexts.