Former US President Donald Trump, campaigning for a potential return to office in this year’s elections, has made a significant shift in his stance on immigration. Trump has proposed that foreign students who graduate from US colleges should automatically receive a Green Card, granting them permanent residency in the United States. This policy change is poised to benefit a large number of Indian and other international students.
Trump, who has been known for his strong rhetoric against immigrants, explained that many foreign graduates return to their home countries, such as India and China, where they become successful entrepreneurs and multibillionaires. He expressed a desire to retain this talent within the US to bolster its economy.
The upcoming US presidential election in November is expected to be a rematch between President Joe Biden and Donald Trump, with immigration policy being a critical issue for voters. Trump, who has previously described illegal immigrants in harsh terms, has now emphasized his support for a merit-based legal immigration system.
During a recent appearance on the “All-In” podcast, hosted by venture capitalists Chamath Palihapitiya, Jason Calacanis, David Sacks, and David Friedberg, Trump outlined his proposal. He recounted stories of foreign graduates from top US colleges who were forced to leave the country, taking their innovative business ideas elsewhere and achieving massive success abroad.
Trump lamented the loss of talent from prestigious institutions like Harvard and MIT and reiterated his policy from his first term, which supported granting Green Cards to foreign students who earn degrees in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and math).
“Anybody graduates from a college, you go in there for two years or four years, if you graduate or you get a doctorate degree from a college, you should be able to stay in this country,” Trump stated. He argued that the US must retain its brightest graduates to stay competitive.
Trump’s recent comments mark a departure from the restrictive immigration policies of his previous administration, which included limitations on Green Cards and visas. With over a million foreign students currently enrolled in US colleges for the 2022-23 academic year, this proposal could significantly impact future immigration trends.
FAQ
What is Trump’s new proposal on Green Cards for foreign graduates?
Trump has proposed that foreign students who graduate from US colleges should automatically receive a Green Card, allowing them to stay in the US permanently.
How does this proposal benefit Indian and other foreign students?
The policy would enable Indian and other international students to remain in the US after graduation, potentially contributing to the US economy with their skills and business ideas.
What is the significance of this policy change?
This marks a significant shift from Trump’s previous restrictive immigration policies, indicating a softer stance on legal immigration.
What prompted Trump to make this proposal?
Trump cited examples of foreign graduates who have returned to their home countries and achieved massive success, suggesting that retaining such talent in the US could benefit the American economy.
How does Trump’s stance on immigration compare to his previous term?
During his previous term, Trump implemented several restrictions on Green Cards and visas. His new proposal reflects a more open approach to merit-based legal immigration.
What is a Green Card?
A Green Card is an identity document that grants permanent residency in the United States.
Why is immigration a key issue in the upcoming US presidential election?
Immigration policy is a major concern for voters, affecting economic, social, and security aspects of the country. Both Trump and Biden have differing views on how to handle immigration.