US former President Donald Trump has proposed an automatic green card provision for foreign students graduating from US colleges, a significant departure from his traditionally stringent immigration policies. This proposal was unveiled during his appearance on the All-In podcast, indicating a strategic pivot in his 2024 campaign platform, which emphasizes immigration reform.
During the podcast, Trump articulated a vision that sharply contrasts with his previous tenure’s policies. What I want to do and what I will do is, you graduate from a college, I think you should get automatically as part of your diploma a green card to be able to stay in this country, he stated. This suggestion implies a broader and more inclusive approach, potentially benefiting a wide range of graduates, including those from two-year junior colleges and doctoral programs.
A green card, or permanent resident card, is a critical step toward US citizenship, granting its holder the right to live and work permanently in the United States. Trump’s proposal to link this privilege directly to educational achievement underscores his recognition of the value that international graduates bring to the US economy and society.
Trump’s rationale for this shift centers on retaining talent within the United States. He recounted stories of international students from top colleges who, after being unable to stay in the US, returned to their home countries and founded successful enterprises. They go back to India, they go back to China. They do the same basic company in those places and they become multi-billionaires employing thousands and thousands of people, Trump remarked. This brain drain, he argues, is a missed opportunity for the US economy.
Moreover, Trump highlighted the practical challenges faced by US companies that struggle to retain highly skilled graduates due to current immigration policies. They can’t even make a deal with a company because they don’t think they’re going to be able to stay in the country, he noted, promising that such hurdles would be addressed on his first day in office if elected.
Trump’s comments come in the wake of President Joe Biden’s recent immigration reforms. Biden announced a pathway to citizenship for immigrants married to US nationals and eased visa rules for the spouses of US citizens, benefiting around half a million individuals. Additionally, Biden simplified the process for Dreamers-migrants who came to the US illegally as children-to obtain work visas if they have graduated from college and secured high-skilled job offers.
While Biden has often faced criticism from Republicans for being lenient on immigration, he has also taken steps to address illegal border crossings. Earlier in June, he signed an executive order barring migrants who enter the US illegally from claiming asylum when numbers surge past 2,500 in a day, showcasing a balanced approach to immigration control.
During his presidency from 2017 to 2021, Trump was known for his hard-line stance on immigration. His administration implemented a series of restrictive measures, including the construction of a wall along the US-Mexico border and a travel ban affecting several predominantly Muslim countries. These actions were part of a broader agenda to curb illegal immigration and enhance national security.
Given this background, Trump’s recent proposal marks a notable shift. By advocating for automatic green cards for graduates, he appears to be acknowledging the economic and innovative contributions that international students can make to the US.
Trump’s proposal has elicited mixed reactions. Supporters argue that it is a pragmatic move to retain top talent and strengthen the US workforce. They contend that international graduates who have invested time and resources in their education should be given the opportunity to contribute to the US economy.
Critics, however, question the consistency of Trump’s stance, viewing this proposal as a political maneuver aimed at broadening his appeal in the run-up to the 2024 election. They also point to the potential challenges in implementing such a policy, including the need for legislative approval and the possible impact on existing immigration systems.
As the 2024 election approaches, immigration is set to remain a pivotal issue. Trump’s latest proposal indicates a willingness to adapt and respond to evolving economic needs and public sentiment. Whether this shift will resonate with voters and translate into policy changes remains to be seen.
