Stephen Miller, former deputy chief of staff for policy under Donald Trump, recently expressed dissatisfaction with contemporary America, suggesting it has strayed from the ideals of its ancestors due to a perceived culture of self-loathing and resource redistribution. In a post on social media, he implied that technological progress has been hindered by immigration, citing a historical period of negative migration between significant American achievements, such as the first transatlantic flight and the moon landing.

Critics quickly responded, pointing out the contradictions in Miller's narrative, particularly given his own background as a descendant of Jewish immigrants who fled persecution. Jon Favreau, a former speechwriter for Barack Obama, highlighted this hypocrisy, noting that Miller's family benefited from the very immigration policies he now opposes. Favreau criticized Miller's privileged upbringing and the wealth accumulation of elites in the current administration.

Journalist Mehdi Hasan also challenged Miller's historical claims, emphasizing the contributions of immigrant scientists and engineers to key technological advancements, including the Apollo moon landing. He noted that significant figures in American innovation, such as Dr. Farouk El-Baz, played crucial roles in the space program.

Further rebuttals included arguments that postwar foreign aid should not be viewed as self-denigration but rather as a demonstration of American strength and values. Critics pointed out that foreign aid constitutes a small fraction of federal spending, undermining Miller's assertions about resource redistribution.

Miller's history of advocating for strict immigration policies, including mass deportations and cuts to refugee admissions, has drawn scrutiny, particularly as these policies would have prevented his own ancestors from entering the United States. His cousin, Alisa Kasmer, publicly condemned his stance, arguing that he is attempting to dismantle the very opportunities that allowed their family to thrive in America.