Elon Musk Faces Backlash Over H-1B Visa Support

president-elect Donald Trump speaks with Elon Musk

The ongoing debate within the MAGA community regarding visas for highly skilled workers continues to generate controversy. Recently, there have been accusations against Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, for allegedly using his social media platform, X, to retaliate against those who oppose his support of the H-1B visa program.

Musk, who has been selected to lead President-elect Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency, has found himself at odds with some Trump supporters over the H-1B visas. While Trump has been critical of the program, Musk has defended it, arguing that tech companies require foreign talent to remain competitive.

In a post on X, Musk emphasized the importance of recruiting top engineering talent globally, stating that it is essential for America's success. However, his stance has drawn criticism from loyal Trump backers such as Laura Loomer and former Rep. Matt Gaetz, who have voiced their opposition to the H-1B visa program.

Following the backlash, Musk reportedly removed verification badges from several members of the Conservative PAC, including Loomer. Loomer, a vocal Trump supporter, accused Musk of silencing her opposition to the H-1B program and labeled him a 'free speech fraud.'

Trump supporters criticize Musk's defense of H-1B visas for tech talent.

Musk accused of using X to retaliate against H-1B visa critics.

Musk removed verification badges from Conservative PAC members on X.

Conservative PAC's chairman, Preston Parra, expressed discontent over the badge removals, stating that over 50 affiliated accounts lost their verified status. Parra emphasized that the right-wing community would not tolerate what they perceive as Silicon Valley elites infringing on their values.

As the controversy unfolds, both Loomer and X have been contacted for comments on the situation. The impact of losing the verified badge on X and the potential financial implications for Loomer remain unclear.

Conservative PAC raised concerns on X about Musk's actions, questioning whether their opposition to H-1B visas led to the verification badge removals. The situation highlights the ongoing tensions within the MAGA world regarding immigration policies and the role of tech leaders in shaping political discourse.