Recently a dispute broke out on X (previously Twitter) between Elon Musk and Steven Mackey, who seemed to be a Trump supporter, regarding the H-1B visa program and immigration policies in the USA. The exchange started when Mackey posted a link to an episode of the TED talk by Musk wherein Mackey explained that the traditional education system was a “mental straight jacket” that hampers innovation and creativity.
Mackey linked Musk’s remarks to the ongoing H-1B visa debate, captioning the post: ‘This is the best time to stop formulated efforts on something that should not be a part of curricular vitae. Let’s optimize H1-B.” His remarks seemed to encourage changes to the program, which regulates immigration of skilled workers and has been blamed for perceived shortcoming.
Musk’s Strong Rebuttal
The post was made soon and it got people reacting to it in a short time. To this, Musk fired back in the defense of the H-1B program, which he said is critical to fostering innovation in America. “The reason that I am in America along with so many important people who created SpaceX, Tesla & hvrd hundreds of other companies that made America great is because of H1B,” Musk posted.
If you are still determined on going through with the plan, back away and Screw Yourself in the face.” I will fight on this issue more than you could ever imagine the nature of the war to be fought.”
Context and Clarifications
This debate also brought out how Musk supports the H-1B program for immigration despite the man questioning his position opposing it. While recognizing there are problems with the visa program he stressed the need to reform it, and not to abolish it.
The exchange revealed that contentious nature of U.S. immigration policies where H-1B visa regime has remained a focus of immigration policies by highlighting talents versus jobs for Americans dilemma.