You might want to sit down for this one.
The Trump administration’s Department of Homeland Security is reportedly reviewing a pitch for a reality TV show called “The American”—a program where immigrants would compete in physical and mental challenges across the U.S. for a chance at fast-tracked citizenship.
Yes, you read that right. The naturalization process could soon be turned into a game show.
According to the Daily Mail, the idea came from producer Rob Worsoff, best known for working on Duck Dynasty. The show would follow participants through various “American experiences” in a bizarre twist on patriotism-meets-primetime. The prize? U.S. citizenship.
While DHS claims this pitch is just one of “hundreds” they receive annually, multiple insiders say Kristi Noem, Trump’s Homeland Security Secretary—infamously dubbed “ICE Barbie” for her cosplay-like photo ops at the border—is reportedly backing the concept and pushing for its approval.
Noem’s office denies she’s signed off, but insiders say her interest is real, and the project is already making the rounds at DHS headquarters. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin admits the show is in the “very beginning stages” but insists no green light has been given yet.
The show would essentially gamify the already challenging and deeply personal process of becoming a U.S. citizen. Instead of focusing on the legal, humanitarian, and cultural importance of immigration, it would turn hopefuls into contestants—pitting them against one another for entertainment.
