‘Patel motel everywhere, you have lost’: Pak-origin writer Wajahat Ali’s rant goes viral as Trump targets ‘third-world countries’

Pakistani-origin writer Wajahat Ali’s comments regarding immigration in the United States have elicited attention online. During a recent commentary, Ali remarked on the growing presence of people of color in America, noting the estimated populations in countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. His comments coincided with former President Donald Trump’s announcement on November 28 that he intends to pause immigration from “third-world countries,” particularly in response to an incident involving an Afghan national suspected of shooting National Guard members.

Ali’s statements included critiques of the current cultural landscape in America, emphasizing the influences of the immigrant community and how demographic changes are reshaping the country. He also remarked on the ripple effect of family immigration, suggesting a trend of increasing diversity through familial connections.

Additionally, Ro Khanna, an Indian-origin Democratic congressman, criticized Trump’s terminology, labeling it outdated and arguing that it could restrict the opportunities that his parents had when they immigrated to the U.S. He expressed concerns that this rhetoric represents a return to an era of restrictive immigration policies.

Ali’s comments and Trump’s immigration proposals have sparked discussions about the evolving dynamics of race, immigration, and American culture.