Nalin Haley Calls Foreign Students Spies, Pushes Anti-Immigration Views

Nalin Haley, son of former US ambassador Nikki Haley, has sparked strong reactions after making controversial statements about immigration, language, and citizenship in the United States. The remarks were made during interviews with television host Tucker Carlson and online platform UnHerd in November 2025.

Nalin, 24, said the US should limit the number of foreign students in American universities, claiming that some might be spies. He added that Americans should "keep our kids first," emphasizing that foreign students could take opportunities away from domestic students.

He also criticized dual citizenship, calling it "the stupidest idea," and argued that people should be loyal to the United States above all else. He stated that naturalized citizens should not be allowed to hold public office, saying that growing up in the country is a “big part of understanding” it.

On language, Nalin expressed disapproval of using any language other than English as a primary language, though he said it was fine to learn or know another language.

Nalin explained his stance on immigration by referring to his own experience and that of his friends. He claimed that many of his peers, despite graduating from top schools, struggled to find jobs while children of established families found employment quickly. He said this frustration shaped his opposition to legal immigration.

The young activist also singled out British-born journalist Mehdi Hasan, a naturalized American, saying Hasan should not only be denaturalized but deported, accusing him of hating America.

Nalin’s statements have drawn attention for their hardline approach to immigration, dual citizenship, and language, and have ignited debates among conservatives, young Americans, and immigration experts.

His comments were made during interviews in the United States in November 2025 and have been widely shared on social media and news platforms.