**Summary.** Trump restored border control after chaotic Biden-era crossings, but followed it with mass deportations of many non-criminals, visa bans on dozens of countries, fewer student visas, and costly H-1B barriers. Labor shortages and a narrower talent pipeline followed. The piece argues America’s dynamism has long come from industrious newcomers, including founders of many Fortune 500 firms.

**Conclusion.** Fortress policies that treat legal inflows and family ties as threats signal isolation rather than partnership. XxxThey weaken people-to-people links with allies, shrink the college-to-industry pipeline that drew global talent, and undercut the openness that underpins U.S. soft power. Secure borders plus selective welcome would better sustain friendships and competitiveness than a closed door.