WASHINGTON: Elon Musk, recently selected to lead President-elect Donald Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, supports H-1B visas for tech growth.
Trump has criticized the H-1B program, while Musk insists skilled immigration is essential to America’s technological success and global competitiveness.
On X, Musk wrote: “If you want your TEAM to win, recruit top talent wherever they may be.”
He also argued that “bringing in top 0.1% engineering talent” is vital for America’s future economic and technological progress.
Far-Right Critics Speak Out
Prominent MAGA figures like Laura Loomer, Ann Coulter, and Matt Gaetz expressed frustration with Musk’s support for skilled immigration visas.
Critics also targeted Vivek Ramaswamy, Musk’s co-chair for the Department of Government Efficiency, calling the duo’s stance counter to Trump’s.
Loomer labeled Musk as a “free speech fraud” and claimed his actions against critics prove he silences opposing voices.
X Verification Controversy Emerges
Conservative PAC reported Musk stripped verification badges from Loomer and over 50 right-wing accounts following their visa-related criticism.
Preston Parra, Conservative PAC chairman, said the removal of verification was a clear attempt to stifle dissent on X.
Parra also accused Musk of targeting MAGA supporters unfairly, calling Silicon Valley “a playground for billionaire elites.”
Musk Rejects Claims of Retaliation
Musk responded to the accusations by dismissing Loomer’s allegations, claiming she is “trolling for attention” rather than engaging meaningfully.
Supporters Lose Revenue Options
Loomer stated her verified badge loss hindered her ability to earn through paid subscriptions on X, directly impacting her income.
With 1.4 million followers on X, the financial implications for Loomer’s business model remain unclear but likely significant.
Conservative PAC Issues Strong Warning
The Conservative PAC shared a statement claiming retaliation against H-1B opposition would not go unanswered by the MAGA movement.
“If anyone thinks MAGA will tolerate these Silicon Valley elites sabotaging us, they’re mistaken,” said Parra in a fiery statement.
The group reiterated its belief that Musk’s actions were deliberate retaliation, signaling escalating tensions within the MAGA world.
Conclusion
The H-1B debate highlights deepening rifts between Musk and Trump-aligned MAGA supporters, signaling continuing disputes within conservative circles.