At a Glance
- Lauren Chen, a former alt-right commentator, was re-issued a U.S. visa by the Trump administration after a 2024 Justice Department indictment linked her to Russian propaganda.
- The visa was granted with the help of senior adviser Joe Rittenhouse.
- The case highlights a contrast between visa revocations for anti-genocide protesters and expedited entry for Russian-funded propaganda.
- Why it matters: The story shows how U.S. immigration policy can be used selectively to reward political allies while penalizing dissenters.
The Trump administration’s latest visa decision has drawn attention after conservative media personality Lauren Chen, who faced a 2024 Justice Department indictment for receiving Russian funds, was allowed back into the United States with the help of senior consular adviser Joe Rittenhouse.
Trump-Backed Visa Granted
Lauren Chen‘s visa was re-issued after her previous revocation by the Biden administration. The decision was facilitated by Joe Rittenhouse, a former actor turned Trump campaign booster. Rittenhouse’s involvement highlights the administration’s selective use of consular powers.
Chen’s Announcement
Chen posted on X that she and her husband were in Nashville, expressing gratitude to the State Department. She praised CBP, the new FBI leadership, and the administration for helping her return.
Lauren Chen stated:
> “moving mountains to ensure we were able to return in time for the holidays!”
Joe Rittenhouse said:
> “American First Consular Affairs looks like.”
Rittenhouse’s Role
Rittenhouse also briefed the press on the Trump administration’s decision to revoke visas of students involved in anti-genocide protests. His dual role underscores a contrast between rewarding pro-Russian propaganda and penalizing dissenting voices.
Recipients of the alleged Russian funds included:
- Benny Johnson
- Tim Pool
- David Rubin
Timeline of Events
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2022 | Chen and husband launched Tenet Media, a venture that would later attract federal attention |
| 2024 | Justice Department indictment linking Tenet Media to RT |
| 2024 | Chen’s visa revoked by the Biden administration |
| 2024 | Visa re-issued under Trump administration with Rittenhouse’s help |
In 2022, Chen and her husband launched Tenet Media, a media venture that would later attract federal attention. The company allegedly received millions from RT, a Kremlin-run outlet. The Justice Department’s 2024 indictment linked the funds to pro-Russian content.
The State Department has not yet responded to a request for comment from News Of Philadelphia.
Key Takeaways
- Lauren Chen‘s visa was re-issued after a 2024 indictment tied her to Russian propaganda.
- Senior adviser Joe Rittenhouse played a pivotal role in securing the visa.
- The decision contrasts with visa revocations for anti-genocide protesters, highlighting selective enforcement.
The incident illustrates how political considerations can shape immigration decisions, raising questions about consistency and fairness in U.S. visa policy.
