A message spread across family WhatsApp groups late at night: “Florida Governor Ron DeSantis calls H-1B visa program a ‘total scam’.” For many Indians working in the US, this felt like a direct spotlight on their place in America’s workforce.
DeSantis Targets H-1B Holders
DeSantis, a Republican, has long criticised the H-1B system. He argues it benefits Indians disproportionately, with most visas going to workers from India. He accused companies of creating a “cottage industry” around exploiting the program.
Allegations of Job Losses
According to him, many companies lay off American workers while hiring or renewing H-1B visas for cheaper foreign labour. He questioned why the US should import talent when its own citizens need jobs, linking the issue to AI-related job threats.
Supporters Defend the Program
The H-1B visa lets US companies hire skilled foreign workers, mainly in technology, through a lottery system. Critics call it flawed, but supporters insist it is vital for business competitiveness. About 70% of all H-1B holders are Indians.
Larger Political Backdrop
This debate emerges as India and the US face tariff tensions and discussions on reforming the visa process. Proposals include making it more merit-based and wage-sensitive. For Indian workers, DeSantis’s remarks underline the fragile mix of opportunity and uncertainty.
