The Department of Homeland Security is actually considering a reality show where immigrants compete for U.S. citizenship – because nothing says “respecting the dignity of our sacred naturalization process” like turning it into America’s Next Top Citizen.
At a Glance
- DHS is evaluating a reality TV show pitch titled “The American” where immigrants would compete for fast-tracked citizenship
- The show concept includes contestants traveling across America competing in cultural challenges with the winner being sworn in at the U.S. Capitol
- Producer Rob Worsoff (of Duck Dynasty fame) is behind the concept, which would include celebrity hosts like Sofia Vergara or Ryan Reynolds
- Eliminated contestants would receive consolation prizes including airline miles, Starbucks cards, and lifetime gas supplies
- DHS spokesperson has given contradictory statements about Secretary Kristi Noem’s knowledge of the pitch
America’s Got Citizenship!
Just when you thought our immigration system couldn’t get any more absurd, the Department of Homeland Security appears to be considering turning the sacred process of becoming an American citizen into a prime-time spectacle. The reality show concept, titled “The American,” would feature immigrants competing in challenges across the country for the ultimate prize of expedited U.S. citizenship. Because apparently, the proper way to determine who deserves to become an American is through reality TV elimination rounds rather than, oh I don’t know, the established legal process designed to protect our sovereignty.
The pitch comes from Rob Worsoff, a producer best known for “Duck Dynasty,” who claims the show would celebrate the immigration process and spark a “national conversation” about American identity. Twelve contestants would travel across America, learning about our history and culture while competing in region-themed challenges. Losers wouldn’t go home empty-handed though – they’d receive consolation prizes including a million American Airlines points, a $10,000 Starbucks gift card, and a lifetime supply of gasoline. Because nothing says “sorry you’re not worthy of American citizenship” like free coffee and gas.
ICE Barbie Takes Hollywood
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, who has already earned the nickname “ICE Barbie” for her media-focused approach to her role, is reportedly at the center of this reality TV debacle. Though there’s confusion about her level of involvement, with DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin first saying “I think it’s a good idea” before later contradicting herself by claiming Secretary Noem “has not ‘backed’ or even aware of the pitch.” This kind of flip-flopping makes perfect sense from an administration that can’t decide whether to enforce our border laws or turn them into entertainment.
“I’m not affiliated with any political ideology. As an immigrant myself, I am merely trying to make a show that celebrates the immigration process, celebrate what it means to be American and have a national conversation about what it means to be American, through the eyes of the people who want it most.” – Rob Worsoff.
Not affiliated with any political ideology? Sure, buddy. Nothing says “non-political” like trying to fundamentally transform how our nation approaches citizenship while working directly with a cabinet secretary. And the best part? The whole spectacle would end with the winner being sworn in as a citizen on the steps of the U.S. Capitol – because who needs the dignified process of a proper naturalization ceremony when you can have cameras, lights and dramatic music?
Trading Constitutional Principles for Nielsen Ratings
The entire concept perfectly encapsulates everything wrong with how this administration views immigration and citizenship. Becoming an American isn’t a prize to be won on a game show – it’s a solemn privilege that carries with it responsibilities and obligations to uphold our Constitution and values. Turning this process into entertainment trivializes the sacrifices made by those who follow the legal path to citizenship and insults the millions who have done it the right way throughout our history.
“@DHSgov receives hundreds of television show pitches a year, ranging from documentaries surrounding ICE and CBP border operation to white collar investigations by HSI. Each proposal undergoes a thorough vetting process prior to denial or approval. This pitch has not received approval or denial by staff.” – Tricia McLaughlin.
What’s particularly galling is that this administration wants to fast-track citizenship for contestants on a reality show while millions of illegal immigrants pour across our southern border with no consequences. Instead of securing the border and creating an immigration system that works for America first, they’re brainstorming how to maximize ratings. The very fact that this proposal hasn’t been immediately laughed out of the room speaks volumes about how unseriously these people take their constitutional duties to protect our nation’s sovereignty.
