A New York Times guest opinion essay by Ohio Republican Governor Mike DeWine calls on President Trump to consider how the anti-communist crusader Richard Nixon traveled to the People’s Republic of China in 1972 to meet the communist leadership. During the Cold War, few other American political leaders could have done this, but Nixon was successful in establishing U.S. relations with China. Even Nixon’s biggest political opponents applauded his actions. Governor DeWine argues that President Trump could also have similar success by developing a sensible immigration policy.
Governor DeWine writes that President Trump “should begin a thoughtful, forward-thinking discussion with members of Congress in both parties about enacting a legal immigration policy that strengthens national security, bolsters our economy and keeps decent, hard-working people here.” The governor stated that he also wants people to enter the United States legally, but writes that the Trump administration’s “approach to those here legally threatens to derail economic momentum in my state and elsewhere by deporting hard-working individuals and shutting the door to future talent.”
The governor adds, “Among the reforms he should consider supporting: Establishing new pathways to extend the legal status of foreign students who graduate with advanced STEM degrees, essentially stapling a green card to their diplomas; reworking the H-1B visa program to better prioritize workers whose skills and experience are essential to American businesses; and equipping employers with modern, reliable tools to verify work eligibility.”
