Politics

Scott Walker Backed EB-5 Visas for Rich Chinese Immigrants

Matt K. Lewis Senior Contributor
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As governor of Wisconsin, Scott Walker was a supporter of a company that helps wealthy Chinese citizens immigrate to the the United States. This revelation stands in contrast to his recent statement that legal immigration policy should be based on “protecting American workers and American wages.”

Not only did Walker previously support so-called “amnesty” (which some argue would be a magnet drawing more illegals) — but as governor, he “has been a long time friend” of a company based in Beijing and Milwaukee that “helps foreign investors become United States Citizens through the Department of Homeland Security Immigrant Investor (EB-5) program.”

This is the same program that Hillary brother Tony Rodham and Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe appear to have gamed.

According to the company’s website, “The partnership provides an investment vehicle that qualifies investors for a Green Card and Citizenship, if so desired. The investment is a $500,000 minimum required program, targeted toward high net worth individuals who understand and appreciate the convenience and timeliness created by participating in a carefully designed program.”

As a “long time friend,” Walker even traveled to Shanghai with the company.

In fairness, most governors support policies like these — because they want wealthy foreigners to invest in their state. In return, these rich foreigners get visas — and perhaps a better shot at citizenship. And, for what it’s worth, the Milwaukee Journal notes that “The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., under Gov. Scott Walker, has encouraged the Chinese to invest in Wisconsin.”

I have requested a comment from Scott Walker’s Our American Revival, and will update this post if and when that comes.

Note: Matt Lewis’ wife previously consulted for Ted Cruz’s Senate campaign, and currently consults for RickPAC.