[HEADLINE]
President Trump’s Businesses Increase Reliance on Foreign Guest Workers, Contradicting “America First” Pledge
[EXECUTIVE SUMMARY]
– Despite President Trump’s promise to prioritize American workers, his businesses have sought to hire more foreign guest workers in recent years.
– Trump’s own properties, including Mar-a-Lago Club and his golf courses, have increased their use of temporary foreign laborers.
– This contradicts Trump’s campaign rhetoric of “building American, buying American, and hiring American.”
– The hiring practices of Trump’s businesses highlight the tension between the Trump administration’s immigration policies and the economic realities faced by certain industries.
– The reliance on foreign guest workers raises questions about the impact on American workers and the effectiveness of visa programs.
[MAIN STORY]
President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign pledge to prioritize American workers is at odds with the hiring practices of his own businesses, which have increasingly relied on foreign guest workers, according to a CNN review of government labor data. Despite his “America First” rhetoric, Trump’s properties, including Mar-a-Lago Club, golf courses, and a Virginia winery, have received approval from the US government to hire 209 foreign workers this year, nearly double the number from a decade ago.
The foreign workers hired by Trump’s businesses include cooks, housekeepers, servers, and desk clerks. Trump has defended the practice by citing the seasonal nature of some of his clubs, claiming that Americans are reluctant to take temporary jobs. However, some former Trump club staffers argue that raising wages or offering other incentives could attract more Americans to these positions.
The hiring practices of Trump’s businesses are not unique to him. Elon Musk, who supported Trump’s campaign, has also requested and received government permission to hire highly skilled foreign workers for his companies, including Tesla.
The majority of guest workers at Trump properties have been granted visas through the H-2B program, which allows employers to hire foreigners for temporary work when there are not enough qualified Americans available. While many US businesses use guest workers, the process of hiring them can be burdensome.
The hiring practices of Trump’s businesses have drawn criticism from some of his allies who have called for reforms to the guest worker visa program. A conservative blueprint called Project 2025, written by former Trump administration officials, recommended capping the H-2B program and phasing it out gradually to prioritize American workers. However, Trump distanced himself from the blueprint during the campaign.
Mark Krikorian, the executive director of the Center for Immigration Studies, supports Trump but acknowledges that guest worker programs can benefit businesses at the expense of American workers. He suggests that the hospitality industry could create an American guest worker program to attract young people from areas with fewer seasonal jobs by offering incentives like free airfare and lodging.
Supporters of using foreign guest workers argue that certain industries, such as hospitality in South Florida, rely on them to meet the demand from tourists and seasonal residents. They argue that these jobs are often difficult to fill with American workers due to low unemployment and the high cost of living.
Chloe East, an economics professor, points out that the US labor market depends on foreign-born workers for certain jobs. She highlights the contradiction between Trump using immigrants as scapegoats for economic troubles while relying on them as workers in his businesses.
While major changes to the guest worker visa programs would require congressional action, the Trump administration could take a tougher stance on various forms of immigration, which could have significant implications for US businesses. The Department of Homeland Security has previously increased the number of foreigners that businesses can hire for seasonal work but has also restricted certain visa categories in response to high US unemployment and the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Trump Organization has a long history of using foreign guest workers, with the number steadily increasing over the years. The positions offered by Trump entities provide modest wages above the minimum wage, along with benefits such as overtime, raises, and bonuses.
[US CONTEXT]
The use of foreign guest workers by Trump’s businesses reflects a broader trend in the US. Many industries, particularly those with seasonal labor needs, rely on guest workers to fill positions that Americans are often unwilling or unable to take. This has been the case for several decades, with various visa programs facilitating the hiring of foreign workers.
The practice of hiring foreign guest workers has drawn criticism in the past, with concerns about its impact on American workers and the economy. Similar debates have arisen in the context of immigration policy discussions and efforts to protect American jobs. The tension between the need for foreign labor and the desire to prioritize American workers has shaped US policies and regulations regarding guest worker visas.
[US MARKET/INDUSTRY ANALYSIS]
The hiring practices of Trump’s businesses and the use of foreign guest workers have implications for the US economy and specific industries. The hospitality industry, especially in tourist destinations like South Florida, relies on seasonal workers to meet the demand during peak seasons. The availability of guest workers through visa programs enables businesses in these industries to maintain their operations and meet customer needs.
However, the use of foreign guest workers also raises questions about the impact on American workers and the potential displacement of domestic labor. Critics argue that by relying on foreign labor, businesses may undermine the bargaining power of American workers and hinder efforts to attract domestic job applicants.
The Trump administration’s policies and regulations regarding guest worker visas will influence the dynamics of various industries, particularly those heavily reliant on seasonal labor. Changes in visa availability and requirements can have significant effects on businesses’ ability to meet their labor needs and may impact their competitiveness in the market.
[EXPERT PERSPECTIVES]
Experts in the field of immigration policy and labor economics offer different viewpoints on the use of foreign guest workers. Mark Krikorian from the Center for Immigration Studies argues that guest worker programs can benefit businesses at the expense of American workers. He suggests exploring alternative approaches, such as creating American guest worker programs, to address labor shortages in certain industries.
On the other hand, proponents of using foreign guest workers argue that they play a crucial role in meeting the labor demands of certain industries. They emphasize the economic benefits that these workers bring and the challenges businesses face in finding qualified American workers for seasonal jobs.
Academic research and industry insights provide valuable perspectives on the complex dynamics of the labor market, immigration policy, and the role of guest workers in the US economy. These insights can inform discussions about the potential impacts of Trump’s hiring practices and the broader implications for American workers and businesses.
[INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS]
The hiring practices of Trump’s businesses and the use of foreign guest workers have implications for US international relations, particularly in the context of immigration policies. The Trump administration’s stance on immigration and visa programs can influence global perceptions of the US and its commitment to economic openness.
The relationship between the US and countries that supply guest workers may be affected by changes in visa policies. Restrictions on guest worker visas could strain diplomatic relations and impact international trade and cooperation. The Trump administration’s approach to immigration and guest worker programs will shape the US’s image and standing in the global arena.
[FUTURE OUTLOOK FOR AMERICA]
In the short term, the Trump administration’s policies and regulations regarding guest worker visas will continue to shape the dynamics of various industries in the US. Changes in visa availability, requirements, and enforcement may have immediate consequences for businesses reliant on seasonal labor.
In the long term, the broader debates around immigration policy and the labor market will continue to shape the future of guest worker programs. The tension between the need for foreign labor and the desire to prioritize American workers will likely persist, influencing policy discussions and potential reforms.
Potential scenarios for the US include reforms to the guest worker visa programs to strike a balance between meeting labor demands and protecting American workers. This could involve changes in visa quotas, requirements, and oversight mechanisms. The future outlook will also be influenced by broader economic trends, political considerations, and societal attitudes towards immigration.
[POLICY IMPLICATIONS]
The hiring practices of Trump’s businesses and the use of foreign guest workers raise important policy considerations for the US government. The Trump administration’s response to these findings will shape the direction of immigration policies and regulations regarding guest worker visas.
The legislative branch, particularly Congress, has the authority to enact major changes to guest worker programs. The findings regarding Trump’s businesses may inform discussions and debates within Congress about the need for reforms and possible adjustments to visa programs. Legislative considerations will involve balancing the economic needs of industries reliant on seasonal labor with the concerns of American workers.
The regulatory impact will be felt through the actions of government agencies responsible for overseeing guest worker visa programs. The Trump administration, in its final days, may take regulatory steps to address any perceived issues with the programs. The incoming Biden administration will have the opportunity to review and potentially revise these regulations to align with its own policy priorities.
[KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR US AUDIENCE]
– The hiring practices of Trump’s businesses contradict his “America First” rhetoric and raise questions about the impact on American workers.
– The reliance on foreign guest workers highlights the tension between immigration policies and the economic realities faced by certain industries.
– The future of guest worker programs in the US will continue to be shaped by debates on immigration policy and the labor market.
– Potential reforms may involve striking a balance between meeting labor demands and protecting American workers.
– The policy implications include legislative considerations and potential regulatory changes under the Biden administration.
[SOURCE ATTRIBUTION]
Source: CNN
URL: https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/16/politics/trump-more-foreign-workers-invs/index.html
Published: 2024-12-16T09:00:43Z
[HEADLINE]
President-elect Trump’s Businesses Increase Reliance on Foreign Guest Workers, Despite Promises to Prioritize American Workers
[EXECUTIVE SUMMARY]
– President-elect Donald Trump pledged to prioritize American workers during his campaign.
– However, a CNN review of government labor data reveals that Trump’s businesses sought to hire more foreign guest workers this year than ever before.
– Companies linked to Trump’s political backers and administration picks also received permission to use guest workers.
– The increase in reliance on foreign laborers by Trump’s businesses contradicts his promise to “build American, buy American, and hire American.”
[MAIN STORY]
President-elect Donald Trump made numerous promises on the campaign trail to protect American workers and prioritize their interests. However, a recent CNN review of government labor data reveals that Trump’s own businesses have significantly increased their reliance on foreign guest workers over the years.
Despite Trump’s pledges to “build American, buy American, and hire American,” his businesses, including the Mar-a-Lago Club, some of his golf courses, and a Virginia winery, have collectively sought approval from the US government to hire 209 foreign workers this year, nearly double the number from a decade ago.
The foreign workers hired by Trump’s businesses include cooks, housekeepers, servers, and desk clerks. Trump has argued that the seasonal nature of some of his clubs necessitates temporary jobs that American workers are reluctant to take. However, some former Trump club staffers believe that raising wages or offering other perks could attract more Americans to these temporary roles.
Interestingly, Elon Musk, who spent significant funds to support Trump’s election, has also requested and received permission to hire about 2,000 highly skilled foreign workers for his company Tesla this year. This reveals a contradiction between Trump’s rhetoric on prioritizing American workers and the actions of his political backers and administration picks.
The majority of guest workers at Trump properties are granted US work visas through the H-2B program, which allows employers to hire foreigners when there are not enough qualified and available American workers for temporary work. While many US businesses use guest workers, the process of hiring them can be cumbersome.
This hiring practice at Trump’s businesses has put them at odds with some of his allies who have called for a rollback of the H-2B visa program. Project 2025, a conservative blueprint written by former Trump administration officials, proposed capping the program and gradually phasing it down to prioritize American workers. However, Trump has distanced himself from the blueprint but appointed one of its co-authors to lead the Office of Management and Budget.
It is worth noting that neither the Trump Organization nor the companies linked to Trump’s political backers and administration picks responded to requests for comment.
Mark Krikorian, the executive director of the Center for Immigration Studies, a think tank that supports tighter immigration controls, acknowledges that foreign guest-worker programs can benefit businesses but argues that they come at the expense of American workers. Krikorian highlights that these programs undermine American workers’ bargaining power and prevent companies from finding innovative ways to attract domestic job applicants.
Some defend the practice of using foreign guest workers, particularly in places like South Florida, where the hospitality industry benefits from the influx of tourists and seasonal residents. Julia Dattolo, CEO of CareerSource Palm Beach County, which connects employers with qualified workers in the area where Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Club is located, explains that filling seasonal jobs becomes challenging due to low unemployment and the high cost of living.
Chloe East, an associate professor of economics at the University of Colorado Denver, argues that the US labor market is dependent on foreign-born workers for certain jobs. However, East warns that the future Trump administration’s tougher stances on immigration, both authorized and unauthorized, could have detrimental effects on US businesses.
Trump’s Make America Great Again vision emphasizes putting American workers first and denouncing companies that outsource jobs. However, his criticism has mainly targeted undocumented immigrants, rather than workers on visa programs. The Trump Organization has a long history of using foreign guest workers, with government data showing that his businesses requested and received approval to hire over 2,100 foreign laborers since 2008.
[US CONTEXT]
The use of foreign guest workers by Trump’s businesses is not a new phenomenon. The Department of Labor has been posting detailed guest worker data since 2008, revealing a steady increase in the number of guest workers hired by Trump entities over the years. In 2008, his companies hired approximately 100 foreign workers, which grew to over 200 approvals in each of the last two years.
This trend highlights the ongoing reliance on foreign laborers within the Trump Organization and raises questions about the effectiveness of Trump’s promises to prioritize American workers. The historical context of Trump’s businesses’ use of foreign guest workers is crucial in understanding the current situation and its implications for American workers.
[US MARKET/INDUSTRY ANALYSIS]
The increase in the use of foreign guest workers by Trump’s businesses has significant implications for the US economy and American businesses. The hospitality industry, in particular, heavily relies on seasonal workers, especially in popular tourist destinations like South Florida.
While the hiring of foreign guest workers helps meet the staffing demands of these industries, it also raises concerns about the bargaining power of American workers and the need for innovative recruitment strategies. The cost of living and low unemployment in certain regions make it challenging for companies to attract American workers to these seasonal roles. This highlights the need for a comprehensive examination of labor market conditions and the potential impact on American businesses.
[EXPERT PERSPECTIVES]
Mark Krikorian, the executive director of the Center for Immigration Studies, argues that foreign guest-worker programs can harm American workers. Krikorian believes that these programs undermine workers’ bargaining power and prevent companies from finding creative solutions to attract domestic job applicants.
Chloe East, an associate professor of economics at the University of Colorado Denver, emphasizes the dependence of the US labor market on foreign-born workers for certain jobs. However, she warns that the Trump administration’s tougher stance on immigration could have negative consequences for US businesses.
To gain further insights, it is essential to consult American experts, academic research, and local industry insights, which can provide a comprehensive understanding of the implications of foreign guest workers on the US economy and society.
[INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS]
The increase in reliance on foreign guest workers by Trump’s businesses may have implications for US international relations. The hiring practices of the Trump Organization, coupled with the actions of Trump’s political backers and administration picks, could be perceived as contradictory to Trump’s “America First” policy.
This discrepancy could potentially impact US relations with other countries, particularly those whose citizens are hired as guest workers. It is important to analyze the potential diplomatic consequences and consider how the international community may perceive the US stance on immigration and labor policies.
[FUTURE OUTLOOK FOR AMERICA]
In the short term, it is unclear how the incoming Trump administration will address the issue of foreign guest workers. However, the long-term implications for America’s labor market and the economy are significant.
Potential scenarios include stricter regulations on guest worker programs, a push for increased wages and benefits for American workers, or the development of alternative solutions to attract domestic job applicants. These scenarios will shape the future landscape of the US labor market and have far-reaching effects on American workers and businesses.
[POLICY IMPLICATIONS]
The Trump administration’s response to the increase in foreign guest workers within Trump’s businesses is a crucial aspect of understanding the impact on US domestic and foreign policy. The government’s approach to visa programs, immigration regulations, and labor market policies will determine the direction of future policy changes.
Legislative considerations, such as capping the H-2B program or implementing a phasedown, as proposed by Project 2025, could be on the agenda. Additionally, regulatory impacts and reforms to the guest worker program may be explored to address the concerns raised by the increased reliance on foreign laborers.
[KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR US AUDIENCE]
– President-elect Trump’s businesses have increased their use of foreign guest workers, contradicting his promises to prioritize American workers.
– The reliance on foreign laborers raises questions about the bargaining power of American workers and the need for innovative recruitment strategies.
– The increase in foreign guest workers has significant implications for the US economy and American businesses, particularly in industries like hospitality.
– American experts and academic research provide insights into the impact of foreign guest workers on the US labor market.
– The future outlook for America includes potential policy changes, including stricter regulations, increased wages and benefits for American workers, and alternative solutions to attract domestic job applicants.
[SOURCE ATTRIBUTION]
Source: CNN
URL: https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/16/politics/trump-more-foreign-workers-invs/index.html
Published: 2024-12-16T09:00:43Z
[HEADLINE]
President-elect Donald Trump’s Businesses Rely on Foreign Guest Workers Despite “Hire American” Pledge
[EXECUTIVE SUMMARY]
– President-elect Donald Trump, known for his “Hire American” campaign promise, has seen his own businesses increasingly rely on foreign guest workers.
– Trump’s businesses, including Mar-a-Lago Club and some of his golf courses, have received approval to hire 209 foreign workers this year, nearly double the number from a decade ago.
– Companies associated with Trump’s top political backers and administration picks have also been given the green light to use guest workers.
– The hiring practices of Trump’s businesses contradict the calls from some of his allies to roll back the visa program that enables the hiring of foreign workers.
[MAIN STORY]
President-elect Donald Trump, who vowed to prioritize American workers during his campaign, has faced scrutiny over his own businesses’ reliance on foreign guest workers. Despite his “Hire American” pledge, Trump’s businesses, including the Mar-a-Lago Club, some of his golf courses, and a Virginia winery, have increasingly sought approval to hire temporary foreign laborers, according to a CNN review of government labor data.
In 2024 alone, Trump’s businesses received permission to hire 209 foreign workers, nearly double the number from about a decade ago. These workers fill various roles, such as cooks, housekeepers, servers, and desk clerks. Trump has defended the use of temporary jobs, citing the seasonal nature of some of his clubs. However, critics argue that raising wages or offering other incentives could attract more Americans to these positions.
Interestingly, Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and a supporter of Trump, has also requested and received permission to hire about 2,000 highly skilled foreign workers for his companies, including Tesla, Neuralink, and X Corp. Additionally, subsidiaries of companies affiliated with Trump’s pick for commerce secretary, Howard Lutnick, and his pick for Social Security Administration commissioner, Frank Bisignano, have also been granted approval to hire foreign guest workers this year.
The majority of guest workers at Trump properties are granted US work visas through the H-2B program, which allows employers to hire foreigners for temporary work when there is a shortage of qualified American workers. While many US businesses use guest workers, the process of hiring them can be complex and time-consuming.
The hiring practices of Trump’s businesses contradict the recommendations of Project 2025, a conservative blueprint authored by former Trump administration officials. The blueprint called for Congress to cap the H-2B program and gradually reduce its size, arguing that the US should prioritize the interests of American workers. Despite distancing himself from Project 2025 during his campaign, Trump appointed one of its co-authors to lead the Office of Management and Budget.
[US CONTEXT]
Trump’s businesses’ reliance on foreign guest workers is not a new phenomenon. Over the past decade, the number of guest workers hired by Trump entities has steadily increased, with over 2,100 foreign laborers approved for various positions since 2008. The recent surge in approvals highlights the growing discrepancy between Trump’s rhetoric and his own business practices.
Historically, the US has had a complex relationship with immigration and foreign labor. While some argue that guest worker programs benefit businesses at the expense of American workers, others defend the practice, particularly in areas like South Florida, where seasonal residents and tourists boost activity in the hospitality industry during the winter.
[US MARKET/INDUSTRY ANALYSIS]
The reliance on foreign guest workers by Trump’s businesses raises questions about the impact on the US economy and American businesses. While the hospitality industry in South Florida heavily depends on guest workers to meet seasonal labor demands, critics argue that these programs undermine the bargaining power of American workers in certain regions and discourage companies from finding creative solutions to attract domestic job applicants.
Experts suggest that the US labor market relies on foreign-born workers for certain jobs, and any major overhaul of the guest worker programs would require congressional action. However, the incoming Trump administration could take a tougher stance on various forms of authorized and unauthorized immigration, which could potentially harm US businesses.
[EXPERT PERSPECTIVES]
Mark Krikorian, the executive director of the Center for Immigration Studies, a think tank advocating for tighter immigration controls, acknowledges that businesses like Trump’s clubs are not at fault for utilizing guest worker programs. However, Krikorian argues that these programs, particularly the H-2B visas, undermine the bargaining power of American workers and hinder companies from exploring alternative strategies, such as creating an American guest worker program that attracts young people from regions with fewer seasonal jobs.
Chloe East, an associate professor of economics at the University of Colorado Denver, who has studied immigration policy, highlights the dual narrative surrounding immigrants in the US labor market. While politicians like Trump use immigrants as scapegoats for economic troubles, they also recognize that immigrants are vital to the labor market and employ them in their businesses. East warns that any restrictive immigration policies imposed by the Trump administration could have detrimental effects on various US businesses.
[INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS]
The issue of foreign guest workers and immigration policies can have implications for US international relations. Trump’s stance on immigration and his own businesses’ use of foreign labor may be scrutinized by other countries, potentially affecting global perceptions of the US and its commitment to fair labor practices.
[FUTURE OUTLOOK FOR AMERICA]
In the short term, it is uncertain how the Trump administration will address the issue of foreign guest workers. While Trump’s businesses have relied on these workers, his rhetoric and political alliances suggest a potential shift in policy. This could result in stricter regulations or reforms to the guest worker programs, impacting industries that heavily rely on foreign labor.
In the long term, the implications of Trump’s approach to foreign guest workers will depend on various factors, including political dynamics, economic conditions, and public sentiment. It is possible that the issue will continue to be a point of contention and debate, with potential changes in policy affecting the availability of foreign labor and the labor market dynamics in different industries.
[POLICY IMPLICATIONS]
The Trump administration’s response to the issue of foreign guest workers remains to be seen. It is likely that there will be discussions and debates surrounding the H-2B program and other guest worker programs, with considerations for potential caps, phasedowns, or reforms. Legislative action may be required to bring about any significant changes in these programs.
Additionally, regulatory impact could be felt through changes in the application process, requirements, or oversight of guest worker programs. The involvement of Trump’s appointees, including the co-author of Project 2025, in key positions within the administration may influence policy decisions related to foreign labor.
[KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR US AUDIENCE]
– Despite Trump’s “Hire American” pledge, his own businesses have increasingly relied on foreign guest workers.
– The issue raises questions about the impact on the US economy, American workers, and the fairness of labor practices.
– The hiring practices of Trump’s businesses contradict the recommendations of some of his allies who advocate for rolling back guest worker programs.
– The future Trump administration could potentially take a tougher stance on various forms of authorized and unauthorized immigration, potentially affecting US businesses.
– The issue of foreign guest workers has implications for US international relations and may be scrutinized by other countries.
[SOURCE ATTRIBUTION]
Source: CNN
URL: https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/16/politics/trump-more-foreign-workers-invs/index.html
Published: 2024-12-16T09:00:43Z
Source: CNN | Originally published: 2024-12-16T09:00:43Z | Read more: https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/16/politics/trump-more-foreign-workers-invs/index.html
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