Indian-American Democratic Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois is facing criticism after reintroducing legislation aimed at expanding the annual allocation of H-1B visas. The move, which mirrors a proposal he brought forward in an earlier session, has sparked debate over immigration policy and its impact on the U.S. workforce.
The initiative drew backlash on social media, with critics labeling it “vicious” and “tone-deaf,” coming at a time when the administration is grappling with a heated H-1B debate. President Donald Trump has emphasized that the country needs specific talents, though MAGA supporters reportedly disagree.
The High-Skilled Immigration Reform for Employment Act, or HIRE Act, aims to double the number of H-1B visas from 65,000 to 130,000 each year. According to the proposal, this increase would help U.S. companies, especially in key and emerging technology fields, hire the skilled workers they need to address ongoing labor shortages.
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“To build the jobs and industries of tomorrow, America must stay at the forefront of innovation by strengthening our own workforce while continuing to welcome top talent from around the globe,” Krishnamoorthi said. “The HIRE Act advances both goals by boosting STEM education in our elementary and secondary schools and by expanding the annual supply of H-1B visas from 65,000 to 130,000. By growing our domestic talent pipeline and ensuring employers can recruit the skilled workers they need, we can create good-paying jobs and secure America’s leadership in the technologies of the future.”
Social media users went so far as to suggest that Krishnamoorthi should be deported, arguing that he should not hold a seat in Congress if he is serving India. “Zero Americans are named Raja Krishnamoorthi. Deport that man,” one user wrote. Another referred to him as “Raja Krishnamoorthi of New Delhi.” Others questioned his focus on H-1B visas, pointing out that Illinois does not host many large technology companies.
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While users have largely reshared a collage of representatives, writing, “These are the reps demanding we double H1-B visas to 130K to stay economically competitive,” on X.
Another user wrote, “I can’t figure out why he wants unlimited Indians”.
Amid growing social media backlash, Krishnamoorthi’s bill has received support from ITServe Alliance, the country’s largest association representing IT services companies. “The HIRE Act is an important step toward modernizing our high-skilled immigration system and ensuring that talented professionals can continue to contribute to America’s innovation economy,” as per governing board chair of ITServe Alliance Raghu Chittimalla.
Meanwhile, one of the user even went ahead, brought in Vivek Ramaswamy, wrote on X, “Regardless of party, the only thing “Raja Krishnamoorthi” and “Vivek Ramaswamy” care about at the end of the day is flooding the country with their fellow invaders”.