A few days ago the Washington Post wrote an editorial criticizing the protectionist provisions added to the recent economic stimulus plan by Senators Charles Grassley and Bernie Sanders (two men who, aside from this issue, couldn't agree on what the color of milk is).
The piece declares that "Shutting out top talent from overseas will do nothing to help the U.S. economy or American workers." Indeed, such measures will cause much more harm than good.
Offering opportunities to skilled international workers encourages the best and the brightest all over the world to work in the United States. Losing this edge would guarantee the eventual downfall of America as the leading global economic powerhouse. Welcoming smart people from around the world also promotes diversity and breaks down cultural barriers, thereby improving diplomatic relations with other countries.
Immigration is among the most tried and true of American traditions. If you disagree, ask yourself where your ancestors are originally from. There's nothing less American than reversing this policy.
Set high standards for workers who want to work here. Crack down on people who abuse the program. Make the punishment very harsh. But shutting out great minds from abroad would rescind the policy that represents the beacon of American economic dominance.