U.S. Citizenship as the Grand Prize in a Reality Show
Twelve Contestants Travel Across States for Various Competitions
Winner Takes the Oath on the Steps of the Capitol
The Trump administration, which has been implementing increasingly stringent immigration policies, is reportedly considering producing a reality show for foreigners in which U.S. citizenship is offered as a prize.
According to reports from the British Daily Mail and the New York Times (NYT) on May 16 (local time), Rob Worsoff, a 49-year-old producer known for shows such as 'Duck Dynasty,' has prepared a 35-page program proposal in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Worsoff, a Canadian-born American, said he first came up with the idea during his own naturalization process. He explained, "Immigrants appearing on this program will participate in competitions held in various states." For example, in Wisconsin, which has a tradition of logging, contestants might compete in log rolling, while in Texas or Florida, they might undertake challenges related to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). There are also plans for quiz contests and civic participation competitions throughout the show.
The show, reportedly titled 'The American,' will feature 12 contestants. The competition will begin on Ellis Island in New York City, historically the entry point for many immigrants, and conclude on the steps of the U.S. Capitol. The winner will take an oath of U.S. citizenship, while those eliminated will receive prizes such as airline mileage.
Worsoff emphasized, "There needs to be a national discussion about what it means to be an American," adding, "We need to be reminded once again of how proud and honored it is to be an American." He continued, "Through this program, we will rediscover the meaning of being American through the eyes of those who most want to become Americans."
The NYT reported that the Department of Homeland Security is reviewing the proposal positively. Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for the department, stated, "The overall content of the proposal is to celebrate American identity and emphasize what a privilege it is to become a U.S. citizen." Some media outlets also reported that Secretary Kristi Noem supports the program and wants it to move forward. However, spokesperson McLaughlin clarified that Secretary Noem has not yet been briefed on the plan.
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