Steve Bannon, the former chief strategist for Donald Trump, has sparked controversy by telling Elon Musk to "go back to South Africa" amid the ongoing debate over H-1B visas. In an interview with an Italian newspaper, Bannon accused the Tesla CEO of promoting a form of "techno-feudalism on a global scale" that favors the interests of Silicon Valley founders over American workers.

Bannon's criticism stems from Musk's advocacy for skilled-worker visas, which he believes is a direct threat to his nationalist agenda. The tension surrounding immigration policy was intensified in December 2024 when far-right activists confronted tech leaders over visa programs that allow foreign professionals to work in the US. At the heart of the confrontation was Elon Musk's appointment to co-lead the newly proposed Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), alongside entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy.

DOGE was tasked with streamlining government operations, but its lack of formal authority raises questions about its effectiveness. Bannon and his allies have criticized these initiatives as harmful to American jobs, noting that Musk's influence in the Trump circle could be wielded during his second term in office. Musk, however, has reiterated his position on the matter, arguing that his stance is essential for maintaining the country's technological edge.

In a Christmas Day tweet, Musk stated, "The number of people who are super talented engineers AND super motivated in the USA is far too low. If you want your TEAM to win the championship, you need to recruit top talent wherever they may be." Bannon has called for Musk's access to the White House to be revoked after it was reported that the Tesla CEO currently holds a top-secret security clearance.

Bannon's comments have sparked a heated debate about the role of tech leaders in shaping US immigration policy. While Musk and his supporters argue that skilled-worker visas are essential for driving innovation and economic growth, Bannon and his allies contend that these initiatives prioritize the interests of Silicon Valley elites over American workers. As the debate continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Musk's influence will shape the Trump administration's stance on immigration policy.

The implications of this controversy extend beyond the realm of tech and politics, highlighting the complex interplay between nationalism, globalization, and the future of work. As the US grapples with the challenges of technological disruption and shifting economic landscapes, the role of tech leaders like Musk will come under increasing scrutiny. Will Bannon's criticism mark a turning point in the debate over H-1B visas, or will Musk's influence continue to shape the Trump administration's stance on immigration policy? Only time will tell.