Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Commerce Secretary Lutnick Call for Major H-1B Reform, Targeting Indian Tech Talent
US Leaders Criticize H-1B Visa System
In a sharp escalation of anti-immigration rhetoric, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has labeled the H-1B visa program a “total scam.” He claimed the system allows companies to replace American workers with cheaper foreign labor, particularly from India, leading to job losses for US citizens.
DeSantis made these comments during an interview with Fox News’ Laura Ingraham, backing a growing push within the Republican leadership to reform or scrap the H-1B program.
“These companies are gaming the system… most H-1Bs are from one country — India,” DeSantis said.
“There’s a cottage industry built around making money off this program.”
US Commerce Secretary Joins the Criticism
A day earlier, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick made similar remarks, calling the current H-1B process a “scam” that gives foreign workers access to jobs meant for Americans.
“Hiring American workers should be the priority of all great American businesses. Now is the time to hire Americans,” Lutnick said.
He also confirmed his role in pushing for a massive policy shift in both the H-1B visa and green card systems, focusing on pay equity and job access for US citizens.
Big Changes Coming to H-1B and Green Card Rules
According to US immigration authorities, a draft rule has already been approved that will:
- Eliminate the current H-1B lottery system
- Introduce a wage-based selection process, prioritizing higher-paid applicants
- Likely affect millions of Indian professionals and students, many of whom are just starting their careers in the US
Why India Is at the Center of the Debate
- Indians account for over 70% of all H-1B visa holders
- The US tech industry heavily depends on Indian IT and engineering talent
- New rules could impact student pathways, STEM jobs, and green card wait times
Political Context: Trump-Era Immigration Crackdown
Since Donald Trump took office, the US has:
- Tightened rules on foreign workers and student visas
- Increased vetting for work visa renewals
- Prioritized “America First” hiring practices
DeSantis and Lutnick’s remarks signal continued alignment with Trump-era immigration policies as the 2026 US elections approach.
What This Means for Indian Workers
If the proposed changes take effect, they may:
- Reduce chances for new Indian applicants under the H-1B program
- Impact visa renewals for current workers
- Create longer wait times and more uncertainty for green card applicants
