>>he said very plainly hes not sticking around to find out what happens next.

Can't blame him, US residency really is a like a game of high attrition. Its your classic up or out scenario.

Some times even a passport doesn't guarantee a stay. Sooner or later, you fall ill, lose a home, have a divorce. Its a unique combination of extreme luck, work, health and many other factors several of which are totally outside of your control.

You either win spectacularly or exit trying.