Reality TV takes on immigration: DHS explores controversial new show

(TNND) — Sometimes reality can be stranger than fiction.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and DHS are involved with a reality show idea. The premise being, immigrants are pitted against each other “for the honor of fast-tracking their way to United States citizenship.

The Daily Mail is reporting that a 35-page pitch has been put together by Rob Worsoff, writer and producer known for Duck Dynasty on A&E and Bravo's Millionaire Matchmaker. Noem has reportedly offered up officials from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to tally votes.

The series is called, The American, named after the train that contestants would ride around the country, competing in regionally specific 'cultural' contests. The culmination of the show would be with the winner getting sworn in on the steps of the U.S. Capitol.

Worsoff, a Canadian Immigrant himself, says of the show idea, “I’m not affiliated with any political ideology. As an immigrant myself, I am merely trying to make a show that celebrates the immigration process, celebrate what it means to be American and have a national conversation about what it means to be American, through the eyes of the people who want it most.”

A spokesperson for DHS has acknowledged that the agency is reviewing the pitch and had a call with the producer last week. The Daily Mail confirms that Noem supports the project and wants to proceed.

Described in the pitch, contestants from various countries and backgrounds would be pre-vetted and arrive at Ellis Island in New York City aboard 'The Citizen Ship', a boat symbolizing a new beginning.