Trump Attacked By MAGA

President Trump is facing pushback from parts of his base after announcing he intends to allow 600,000 students from China into the United States. Speaking alongside South Korea’s president on Monday, Trump described the decision as part of maintaining “a very important relationship” with Beijing. He emphasized the move was “very important” and would strengthen ties with China.

The comments marked a shift from earlier positions, including when Secretary of State Marco Rubio pledged to revoke visas for Chinese students with connections to the Chinese Communist Party or those studying in sensitive research areas. Now, Trump’s openness to Chinese students has sparked frustration among his “America First” supporters, who argue it contradicts his campaign message.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene criticized the decision, warning it would displace American students and accusing Trump of risking national security. “We should not let in 600,000 Chinese students to attend American colleges and universities that may be loyal to the CCP,” she wrote on X. Other allies were even more blunt. Far-right activist Laura Loomer dismissed the students as “Communist spies” and accused Trump of allowing China to “replace” Americans. Michael Flynn Jr. said online that this was “Not what I voted for.”

Fox News host Laura Ingraham pressed Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on the policy, asking how it aligned with Trump’s “America First” agenda. Lutnick defended the move, saying the absence of Chinese students would shutter many lower-tier universities, while elite schools would only become more competitive for American applicants.

The backlash reflects long-running conservative skepticism of Chinese students in U.S. institutions, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic and escalating concerns over espionage. Trump, however, presented the decision as part of broader trade negotiations with Chinese President Xi Jinping. After both nations imposed steep tariffs earlier this year, they agreed to ease some of those rates amid ongoing talks. Trump also hinted he may visit China later this year.