Trump Signs New Orders to Limit Birthright Citizenship and Stop Birth Tourism
CONNECTICUT- President Trump has signed two new executive orders targeting birthright citizenship and “birth tourism”. This comes just weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court blocked his broader, initial attempt to end automatic citizenship for children born in the U.S.
What Do the New Orders Do?
These new orders attempt a more targeted approach compared to the previously rejected, blanket attempt to end birthright citizenship for all.
Narrowing Citizenship Rules:
The first order aims to restrict automatic citizenship for specific groups, such as children of certain foreign government employees or individuals tied to certain foreign organizations, who are not subject to U.S. jurisdiction even if born on U.S. soil.
Cracking Down on Birth Tourism
The second order targets foreign nationals who travel to the U.S. specifically to give birth so their children can secure U.S. citizenship. It directs the State Department and other agencies to increase visa restrictions, heighten screening of visitors suspected of intending to “birth tourism,” and strengthen enforcement.
Why Trump Is Doing It
Trump’s administration argues that current interpretations of the 14th Amendment are being “misapplied” and create a “magnet” for illegal immigration. Trump criticized the Supreme Court’s recent decision upholding the long-standing interpretation, calling it an “unfortunate decision” that ignores the original intent of the amendment. He stated these orders are necessary to protect the integrity of the U.S. immigration system and prevent “fraud.”
What Happens Next?
The orders are expected to face immediate and significant legal challenges. Civil rights groups and legal experts have already stated that these new orders are unconstitutional, as the 14th Amendment guarantees citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the U.S., regardless of their parents’ status. The legal battle will likely test the limits of executive authority on the issue of citizenship, setting the stage for another major showdown in the federal courts.