Former CNN host Don Lemon has criticized supporters of Donald Trump, labeling them as "dumb" and "stupid" for their reaction to what he describes as a "MAGA civil war" over evolving immigration policies. Lemon's comments come as Trump's stance on H-1B visas appears to have shifted, sparking debate among his base.
The controversy stems from Trump's recent support for H-1B visas, which allow skilled foreign workers, particularly in the tech industry, to work in the U.S. This move has reportedly caused concern amongst some of Trump's supporters who were drawn to his previously stated hardline stance on immigration. In contrast, certain sectors, including agriculture, fear potential labor shortages due to stricter measures on other migrant workers.
Lemon, on his YouTube channel, highlighted the challenges faced by farmers who are heavily reliant on migrant labor, suggesting some may only have a couple of days before their businesses are significantly impacted. However, instead of sympathy, Lemon expressed open contempt for those he feels were deceived.
He did not hold back, accusing Trump's supporters of being "taken" and part of a "cult" due to their supposed lack of understanding. Lemon stated that the backlash was a deserved consequence of their perceived gullibility.
Trump's past rhetoric had consistently framed H-1B visas as "very bad" and "unfair" to American workers. Yet, after reported lobbying from allies like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, Trump publicly declared himself a "believer" in the program, calling it "great." This shift has left some supporters feeling betrayed and puzzled by the apparent change in direction.