‘Claiming refugee status then...’: Congressman says foreigners on tourist visas come to US only to go back on 'vacations'

Florida Republican Congressman Randy Fine has called for a complete pause on all immigration to the United States, claiming that some foreigners are exploiting the visa system through 'scamming.'

Speaking on a Newsmax interview, Fine said people are coming on tourist visas, claiming refugee status, and then returning to the countries they supposedly fled for 'vacations.'


“Well, look, we've got to pause all immigration to this country right now—legal immigration, illegal immigration, all of it. Because the system is completely broken,” Fine told the host.

Fine said that once immigrants enter US, they claim all the benefits and then go back to their home countries: “People are coming here on tourist visas and then protesting against America. People are claiming refugee status, getting all the benefits, and then going on vacation back to the countries they supposedly fled in fear for their lives."

The Republican added that the same people are coming here legally and taking jobs from Americans: "Until we fix the system—until we make sure that only people who share American values, who want to assimilate, who want to be Americans are allowed in—this country needs a pause on all immigration.”

Last month, the Congressman also introduced the ‘No Welfare for Non-Citizens Act,’ which aims to stop non-citizens from receiving federal welfare benefits and subsidies. According to Fine’s office, the legislation would end eligibility for all non-citizens from programmes such as healthcare, housing, and food assistance. Fine said the initiative also included those legally in US.

“The act is meant to protect American taxpayers and reduce federal spending,” Fine said, saying that welfare funds should instead go to US citizens and native Americans. Supporters claim the bill closes visa loopholes that allow some non-citizens to access benefits without consequences. Democrats and progressive groups warn that the proposal could harm lawful immigrants and their families, many of whom contribute taxes and participate in the trillion-dollar economy.

Fine has framed the legislation as a response to concerns that non-citizens are taking advantage of American taxpayer money while integrating too much into US society.