Nalin Haley, the 20-year-old son of former South Carolina governor and prominent Republican figure Nikki Haley, wants everyone to know he is not a political voice for Gen Z. For months, his hard-line views on immigration have drawn attention, especially his call to end legal immigration and block naturalised citizens from holding public office, despite coming from an immigrant family.
The New York Post recently described him as having views “to the far right” of his mother and suggested he represents a frustrated part of his generation. But Nalin says that is simply not true. He insists he never asked for attention and has no interest in speaking for anyone but himself.
‘I never said I was the voice of Gen Z’
In a post on X, Nalin wrote, “Lol I never said I was the voice of GenZ.” He explained that he never wanted a platform in the first place and still doesn’t. “You’re not gonna see me starting some podcast, YouTube channel, streaming service, or any form of monetisation. I’ve avoided media my whole life and still decline 95% of requests,” he added. “I don’t care about that stuff. I have a life,” he concluded, trying to shut down the idea that he is chasing influence.
Nalin said the only reason he has spoken up at all is because he feels deeply unsettled by what he sees happening in the country. “I am only speaking out because I am sickened by the destruction of my country and the disrespect towards my fellow Americans, particularly those in my generation,” he wrote.
Why is Nalin Haley in spotlight?
Much of the discussion around Nalin has been influenced by the current political climate in the US, clouded by Trump’s tough immigration stance. The rising anti-foreigner sentiment in America, especially against work visa holders taking jobs, has become a major concern. The administration has launched multiple initiatives to keep “America First.”
Nalin, despite coming from an India-immigrant family, sharp remarks naturally drew even more interest. The 20-year-old recently appeared on the Tucker Carlson show and suggested that naturalised citizens should not be allowed to hold public office. He said the country “needs leaders who were raised in the culture from birth.” He also called dual citizenship “stupid,” arguing that a person should choose to be American or not at all.
“There are so many different aspects to immigration. It’s not just about migration. A lot of things are out of control,” he said. “Naturalised citizens should not be able to hold public office. Growing up here is a big part of understanding the country.”
He added, “We should also not allow dual citizenship because that’s the stupidest idea. You’re either American or you’re not. People should have their loyalty to America first. And if they can’t do that, then they’ll save the country for you.”
Nalin’s remarks were widely criticised online. Many pointed out that the US has always allowed immigrants and their children to enter public life. The Constitution blocks only foreign-born people from becoming President, not from holding any other office.