President Donald Trump’s decision to admit a small group of white South African farmers as refugees has triggered sharp criticism and allegations of racial bias. Trump cited violent attacks on these farmers as justification, calling it a “genocide” and accusing the media of ignoring the issue due to the victims being white. He emphasized that race was not a factor in his decision, saying, “I don’t care who they are… what’s happening is terrible.”

The move drew backlash from MSNBC reporter Yamiche Alcindor, who contrasted it with Trump’s termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Afghan refugees, despite worsening conditions under Taliban rule. Alcindor questioned the apparent exception made for white South Africans, especially as the administration had suspended broader refugee resettlements due to claimed capacity issues.

Critics argue the administration’s actions suggest racial favoritism, with some South Africans saying the violence affects all races, not just whites. Trump supporters maintain the farmers face unique persecution, while the controversy has deepened partisan divides on immigration and refugee policy.