Today, Explained MAGA meltdown
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Jan 7, 2025 
This discussion features Andrew Prokop, Vox’s senior politics correspondent, who unpacks the internal conflicts within the MAGA coalition, especially around immigration issues. Tim Higgins, a Business columnist for The Wall Street Journal, sheds light on Elon Musk's ongoing influence, showcasing how his actions continue to split the Republican Party. They delve into the heated debates over the H-1B visa program and the challenges of aligning differing views within MAGA, all while Musk’s disruptive role raises questions about the party's future.
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MAGA Immigration Fight
- Trump appointed immigrant Sriram Krishnan as a senior advisor, sparking a racist backlash.
- This ignited a conflict between MAGA's anti-immigration wing and tech figures like Elon Musk, who utilize visas for foreign workers.
H-1B Visa Program
- The H-1B visa program allows US companies to hire skilled foreign workers for specific roles.
- It's heavily used in Silicon Valley, with a median recipient salary of $125,000.
Trump's Conflicting Impulses
- Trump has shown conflicting views on H-1B visas, both supporting and criticizing them.
- His endorsement by tech figures in 2024 influenced his stance, leading to appointments like David Sachs as AI czar.