The U.S. Government has come out to deny rumors of an alleged support for a reality show in which immigrants would compete for U.S. citizenship. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem stated categorically during a Senate hearing that her office “has no plans to host a reality show.”
These statements follow reports that the DHS is evaluating a proposal to produce a program titled “The American”, where immigrants would face physical, cultural and historical tests to aspire to naturalization. The proposal was presented by producer Rob Worsoff, known for his work in television, who assured that the intention of the program was to highlight the value of the American dream.
Celebration or spectacle?
The program concept, according to Worsoff, includes challenges such as putting together a classic American model car or competitions inspired by historical events.
The final prize would be citizenship, while eliminated participants would receive minor gifts such as gift cards.
Worsoff has insisted that his intention is to “celebrate what it means to be an American” and to show the efforts of those who wish to integrate into the country.
However, this view has been strongly criticized by civil rights organizations and community leaders.
They believe that the format turns a deeply human experience into a spectacle.
For them, the proposal trivializes the legal immigration process and risks reinforcing negative stigmas.
DHS: no support
Buzzy
Although the DHS press office confirmed receipt of the proposal, it also made it clear that neither Kristi Noem nor any top-level official has expressed any endorsement.
In fact, they explained that the department annually receives dozens -even hundreds- of proposals to participate in television content.
And that all of them go through a rigorous review process before approving or rejecting any collaboration.
In this case, it was clarified that Worsoff’s initiative has not been approved or even formally discussed by the DHS management team.
It is currently in the initial stages of internal review with no indication that it will move forward.
Political tension
This episode occurs at a time of high political tension surrounding the immigration issue.
The administration of President Donald Trump, who returned to power in January 2025, has resumed a tough stance with promises of mass deportations and restrictions on rights such as birthright citizenship.
The proposal trivializes the legal immigration process
QueOnnda.com
The reality show proposal has been seen by many as a reflection of the hardening of the official narrative on immigrants in the U.S.
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