Summary: Vice President JD Vance said he supports eliminating the H-1B visa program, calling it "completely broken" and accusing some employers of defrauding American workers. He defended the Trump administration's $100,000 fee as a deterrent but said more needs to be done to protect U.S. workers. A federal judge recently blocked the fee's rollout, marking a second court setback. The remarks underscore a widening split among conservatives over immigration and labor policy.
VP JD Vance Says H-1B Program Is 'Completely Broken,' Backs Eliminating It
Vice President JD Vance during a campaign event in Lakeland, Florida, on Thursday, Oct. 1. Bloomberg via Getty Images
Vice President JD Vance said Thursday he supports ending the H-1B visa program entirely, calling the system widely used by technology, engineering and accounting firms "completely broken" and accusing some employers of "defrauding" American workers.
Speaking aboard Air Force Two in a livestreamed interview with commentator Jack Posobiec broadcast by Real America's Voice, Vance framed the position as a firm policy line as he eyes a 2028 presidential bid. His remarks highlight a growing split on the right: Silicon Valley allies and many business leaders argue H-1Bs fill critical talent gaps, while more restrictive conservatives and some right-wing media personalities call for tighter limits or abolition.
What Vance Said
"My view is, the H-1B program is completely broken, and I'd be very supportive of just eliminating it," Vance said. "But while we have it, what we have to do is protect American workers."
Vance defended parts of the Trump administration's approach to the program, saying the recently proposed $100,000 fee for certain H-1B applicants—developed after discussions among President Donald Trump, Vance and senior adviser Stephen Miller—was meant to deter employers from replacing U.S. workers with lower-cost foreign labor.
How the Program Works
The H-1B visa allows U.S. employers to hire foreign nationals for specialized, skilled roles. Applicants typically must hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree in a relevant field. H-1B status is generally granted for three years and can be extended up to six years; it is commonly used in technology, healthcare and engineering.
Legal And Political Pushback
Vance's comments come as the administration's fee-based strategy faces legal setbacks. A federal judge recently blocked U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services from implementing the $100,000 fee for some H-1B applicants—marking the second court rebuke of the administration's approach in a matter of months.
A Broader Conservative Debate
Debate over H-1B policy has produced prominent clashes within conservative circles. Some business and tech leaders, including Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, have defended H-1Bs as necessary to fill talent gaps—while acknowledging abuses by outsourcing firms—drawing criticism from immigration-restriction advocates on the right.
What Comes Next
Vance urged Americans frustrated with the program to press their congressional representatives for reform while the administration pursues actions it says will curb fraud. When asked whether President Trump would consider ending H-1Bs entirely, the White House directed questions to Vance's office; the vice president's press team did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Note: This article summarizes comments and recent legal developments related to H-1B policy and does not speculate on future legislation or administrative actions.
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