Is the Department of Homeland Security Considering a Reality Show Where Immigrants Compete for U.S. Citizenship?

A television producer known for shows such as The Millionaire Matchmaker and Duck Dynasty has proposed a new reality show concept to the Department of Homeland Security. In this show, immigrants would compete for U.S. citizenship, with the aim of humanizing the immigration process. The producer, Rob Worsoff, who himself hails from Canada, believes the show could serve as a celebration of America.

Worsoff stated that he had previously pitched this idea during Democratic Administrations. The Department of Homeland Security’s assistant secretary, Tricia McLaughlin, confirmed that they receive numerous TV show proposals annually, which undergo a thorough evaluation process. She emphasized the importance of promoting patriotism and civic duty in the country.

Despite rumors suggesting DHS Secretary Kristi Noem’s involvement in the show, McLaughlin clarified that Noem was unaware of the pitch. Worsoff claimed that the DHS is seriously considering the show, which would involve elimination challenges held in various locations across the U.S., culminating in a vote resembling a presidential election to grant citizenship to the winner.

The proposed show, tentatively titled “The American,” has garnered mixed reactions. While Worsoff believes it could shed light on the immigration process, critics like Texas Rep. Joaquin Castro have condemned the idea, calling it “sick.” The debate over the show comes amid the Trump Administration’s stringent immigration policies and legal battles on various fronts.