The Department of Homeland Security is reportedly considering promoting a new reality show based on the U.S. immigration system, in which contestants compete against each other to gain citizenship. The initiative was proposed to DHS by Rob Worsoff, a 49-year-old Canadian-American television producer.
As communicated by the agency’s spokeswoman, Tricia McLaughlin, the challenges among the contestants would be based on a range of U.S. traditions and customs. “The pitch generally was a celebration of being an American and what a privilege it is to be able to be a citizen of the United States of America,” McLaughlin added about the purpose of the program, explaining that DHS was happy to examine ”original proposals.”
Worsoff said he had first thought of the reality show during his naturalization process. He explained that participants would be competing in different states in order to highlight various American excellences, such as NASA. The producer also explained that none of the immigrants would be penalized because of their status, nor would they be deported if they lose at the end of the program.
“What’s going to happen is we’re going to get to know these people and their stories and their journeys, and we’re celebrating them as humans,” he said. “We’re putting a face to these people, to their journey. It’s not going to be a Hunger Games for immigrants. There’s nobody who loses on this show, it’s ridiculous to even suggest otherwise.”
Worsoff also revealed that he had previously proposed to DHS the creation of a similar reality show, more specifically in 2012, when President Barack Obama was at the helm of the US. However, his request was unsuccessful.
Now, however, things may be changing. Immigration is one of the dominant issues in the US, particularly since Donald Trump returned to the White House. Under Kristi Noem’s leadership, moreover, DHS has often focused on possible advertising strategies and reality shows that can showcase the harsh immigration policies promoted by the federal administration.
For the time being, Worsoff’s project has not landed on Noem’s desk. “Each proposal undergoes a thorough vetting process prior to denial or approval,” DHS reported.
