By Kashmira Konduparty
James Fishback, the investor and political commentator, sparked debate online after criticizing Amazon’s use of H-1B visas in a viral post on X. Fishback claimed the company was prioritizing foreign labor over American workers after allegedly applying for more than 10,000 H-1B visas. The post quickly gained traction amid ongoing national debates over immigration and tech hiring.
Fishback wrote “Amazon just applied for 10,781 H-1B visas. They don’t want to hire you, your kids, or your grandkids. They want to hire cheap foreign laborers from places like India, China and Thailand.”
“We will not be replaced. End of story,” he added. He accused large corporations of preferring cheap foreign labor over American workers.
READ: H-1B visa demand falls: Walmart, Amazon, JPMorgan Chase cut hiring (April 10, 2026)
The H-1B visa program allows U.S. companies to hire foreign workers in specialized fields such as technology, engineering, healthcare and finance. Major technology companies including Amazon, Google and Microsoft have long relied on H-1B workers, particularly in software engineering and AI-related roles. Supporters say the program helps address skilled labor shortage in the U.S.
Critic argue some companies use H-1B visas to reduce labor costs and avoid hiring domestic workers. Opponents also claim the system can place downward pressure on wages and increase outsourcing. Concerns about foreign labor in the tech industry have intensified during layoffs and automation-related job fears.
Immigration advocates and many tech executives defend the H-1B system as essential to maintaining American competitiveness. They argue that highly skilled immigrants contribute to innovation, startup growth and scientific research. Several major tech companies have stated that they cannot find enough domestic workers to meet hiring demands in socialized sectors.
READ: ‘Side hustles’ on H-1B? Hidden risks and where immigration law draws the line (April 9, 2026)
Fishback’s comments generated sharp reactions across social media. Supporters agreed with his criticism of corporate hiring practices and outsourcing. Critics accused the post of promoting anti-immigrant rhetoric and unfairly targeting foreign workers, especially Indians in the technology sector.
Immigration and employment-based visas have become major issues in U.S. politics ahead of ongoing debates over border security and economic nationalism. The H-1B program has faced criticism from both conservative immigration hardliners and labor groups in recent years. Politicians from both parties have proposed reforms aimed at tightening oversight of the visa system.
The viral post, which was viewed over 400,000 times, reflects growing tensions around globalization, immigration and workforce competition in the technology industry. As companies continue relying on international talent while Americans face economic uncertainty and layoffs, debates over the H-1B system are likely to remain politically divisive.