In January of this coming year, 2024, the primaries of the presidential race will commence. Among those running for the chief executive office is newcomer Vivek Ramaswamy. A bestselling author, entrepreneur, and family man, 38-year old Republican Ramaswamy is a breath of fresh air that the Republican party desperately needs.
Born and raised in Cincinnati Ohio, Ramaswamy strove for greatness his whole life. Graduating from his high school as a valedictorian and subsequently majoring in biology at Harvard, Ramaswamy demonstrated a persistence and high-level intellect throughout his schooling. After graduating from Harvard University with a degree in biology and completing his J.D.(A standard law degree) at Yale, Ramaswamy founded the biotech company Roivant Sciences. During the last decade, Roivant has produced 5 FDA approved drugs under Ramaswamy’s leadership. His background in the law and biotech fields have proven him to be very advantageous for America and the future of our nation’s economy.
Along with his strong capitalist background and high intellect, Ramaswamy has very specific political views that set him apart in the race. His most prominent idea, and the one with the most backlash, is his plan to abolish the H-1B visa program. This visa program has been used for over 30 years to allow manufacturers to hire skilled workers from foreign countries to work in the U.S. for six years before having to renew their visas. Ramaswamy believes that this program should be replaced with meritocratic admission, allowing skilled workers to go to university or work in the U.S. based not only on a company’s selection but also on rigorous examination. He’s receiving backlash primarily because of his use of this visa program during his time as the head of Roivant. Though his actions seem hypocritical, Ramaswamy responded to this saying that “I believe the energy system in this country and energy regulation needs drastic reform too. But I still use water and electricity and turn on the lights.” Though his ideals are challenging, they are unique among his competitors.
Ramaswamy has proved time and again that he is set apart from his peers. From his background, to his age, to his views on policy, Vivek Ramaswamy is different, but maybe different is what America needs.