Row erupts over Nikki Haley's son saying naturalised citizens should not hold office in US: 'Even our white nationalists are brown'

Indian-origin Nikki Haley’s son, Nalin Haley, stirred a row after suggesting that naturalised citizens should not be allowed to hold public office in the United States. His comments were made during a discussion about immigration and national identity with conservative commentator Tucker Carlson. Both Democrats and the MAGA base were torn on this remark as it undermines a lot of values that are laid out by the current modern Republican party.

The debate began when the 24-year-old claimed that only those born in the United States should be eligible to run for public office, saying the country “needs leaders who were raised in the culture from birth.” Supporters argued that he was expressing a patriotic position, but critics countered that his view was unconstitutional and deeply out of step with the nation’s long history of welcoming immigrants into its political and civic life. Nalin also criticised the idea of dual citizenship, calling it “stupid” and arguing that a person is either American or not.

Social media response:

• America’s such a diverse and multicultural place that even our white nationalists are brown.
• Even the racism has been outsourced to Indians.
• The irony is wild, a name rooted in Sanskrit(Lotus)and a life rooted in classic American birthright rules. Nikki Haley parents weren’t even U.S. citizens when she was born, yet here we are getting lectures about who’s ‘American enough.’
• Another nepo baby with nothing to offer except more ignorant rhetoric of ridiculousness. These politicians did not hug their children enough.
• Someone should tell Nikki's son that many of the Founding Fathers were naturalized citizens.
• Immature, naive and xenophobic. Good job Nikki!
• He doesn’t realize the white supremicists are never going to accept him, does he?

Nikki Haley is herself the daughter of Indian immigrants and has not publicly endorsed or rejected her son’s remarks. Meanwhile, last week Nalin called for a ban on all H-1B visas, saying that immigrants are coming in and stealing jobs and opportunities from his friends in the States.


The youngster’s remarks come at a time when H-1B visas remain a sensitive issue. Earlier this month, Donald Trump softened his stance on the programme, saying the US is in dire need of foreign skilled workers and lacks sufficient domestic talent. The shift sparked a wave of backlash from his once-loyal MAGA supporters, who now accuse Trump of betraying the “America First” agenda.