Staff Reports
In what seems like a victory for common sense, the Trump administration has decided to suspend the Diversity Visa Lottery program, commonly known as the green card lottery. Secretary Gnome from the Department of Homeland Security announced the pause in response to a tragic incident involving a suspect who entered the United States through this very program. The president’s directive aligns perfectly with his longstanding view that America should prioritize its national security and scrutinize such immigration programs with a critical eye. It’s about time someone took a magnifying glass to these kinds of initiatives.
The State Department has echoed their commitment to national security as Secretary Rubio has indefinitely paused the diversity visa program to identify and address any potential lapses in vetting procedures. It’s clear they want to ensure that America does not become a safe haven for individuals who pose a threat. Each visa decision is now deemed a national security decision—a welcome departure from the open-door policy mindset. The State Department has set out to tighten procedures and is more determined than ever to scrutinize applicants from countries that typically do not send large numbers of immigrants to the U.S.
Some might argue that pausing the program could be an overreaction. After all, it’s just 500 people a year, right? But when even one of these individuals goes rogue, like in that 2017 New York incident involving an ISIS supporter, suddenly the stakes become crystal clear. Tommy Pigot, the State Department’s principal deputy spokesperson, reassures the public that an appropriate reaction to such events is to halt visa issuing temporarily, ensuring any deficiencies are fixed before more visas are processed. America elected a president who promised to put the country’s safety first, and this strategy reflects that pledge.
It’s not just this particular visa program that is under the microscope. In a broader effort to clamp down on illegal immigration and reinforce the nation’s borders, the State Department reportedly revoked about 95,000 visas in 2025, with a significant number tied to breaches of visa terms like DUIs, assaults, and thefts. Keeping the streets safe from those who do not value law and order is security 101. A visa is a privilege, not a right, and according to the administration, those privileges must be earned by respecting the law and contributing positively to society.
America first isn’t just a campaign slogan; it’s a visa policy that requires immigrants to bring valuable skills to the country—be it as tradesmen or scientists—not just a rounded number to satisfy diversity quotas. With the overhaul of visa categories and the end of lax oversight, this policy marks a significant shift from past administrations. It is a step towards reclaiming borders and ensuring these systems serve the interests of the American people. Visa security is indeed border security, and this administration looks intent on proving just that. Any objections? Well, maybe reconsider which team’s jersey you’re wearing.
