Democratic Senator Gallego calls for supervision of H-1B visas

Senator Ruben Gallego, a Democrat from Arizona and a possible 2028 presidential candidate, is expressing concerns about the H-1B visa program, echoing some criticisms previously voiced by former President Trump. Gallego urged the administration to increase scrutiny of the program, alleging that major technology firms may be misusing it by hiring foreign workers while reducing their American workforce.

In a letter shared with Semafor this week, Gallego highlighted what he described as a troubling pattern within the tech and banking industries, suggesting that H-1B visas might be used to "replace or undercut" U.S. employees rather than supplement the workforce. The letter referenced prior efforts this year by the administration to enforce H-1B regulations more strictly.

"The H-1B visa program is intended to strengthen the economy and complement American workersnot to replace them," Gallego wrote. "With many qualified American college graduates unemployed, it raises serious questions when companies lay off domestic employees while hiring foreign H-1B workers."

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon stated that the Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division is investigating leading tech firms to ensure compliance with federal law. Dhillon emphasized that the department is actively targeting companies that may be discriminating against American workers in favor of visa holders, with enforcement actions and penalties planned when warranted.

The Department of Labor and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services did not respond to requests for comment on the matter.

Author: Aiden Foster