How Does Trump Want to Change Birthright Citizenship?
Birthright citizenship, a cornerstone of American nationality law, has long been a point of contention. The concept of being a citizen by birthright is deeply ingrained in the American psyche, but President Donald Trump has expressed his desire to change this long-standing practice. This article delves into how Trump wants to alter birthright citizenship and the potential implications of such a change.
Understanding Birthright Citizenship
Birthright citizenship is enshrined in the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which states that “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to its jurisdiction, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.” This amendment was a response to the Dred Scott v. Sandford (1857) Supreme Court decision, which declared African Americans could not be citizens.
Trump’s Proposal
President Trump has repeatedly called for an end to birthright citizenship, suggesting that only children born to citizens should automatically become citizens. He has argued that the current system allows illegal immigrants to give birth in the United States, granting their children citizenship, which he views as an unfair advantage.
Legal Challenges
Trump’s proposal faces significant legal challenges. The 14th Amendment is considered a settled law, and any attempt to alter it would require a constitutional amendment, which is a lengthy and arduous process. Additionally, the Supreme Court has previously ruled that birthright citizenship is a fundamental right, making it difficult for Trump’s administration to change the status quo without facing legal scrutiny.
Public Opinion
The idea of changing birthright citizenship has been met with mixed reactions from the American public. Some argue that it is necessary to prevent illegal immigration and ensure that citizenship is reserved for those who have a legitimate claim to it. Others believe that altering birthright citizenship would undermine the principles of equality and justice upon which the United States was founded.
Implications of the Change
If Trump’s proposal were to be implemented, it would have far-reaching implications. It could lead to a decrease in the number of births to undocumented immigrants in the United States, potentially reducing the number of children born with automatic citizenship. This could also have a significant impact on the demographics of the country, as birthright citizenship has been a major factor in the growth of the Hispanic population in the United States.
Conclusion
President Trump’s desire to change birthright citizenship is a contentious issue that raises questions about the future of American nationality law. While the legal challenges and public opinion are significant obstacles, the debate over birthright citizenship continues to highlight the complexities of immigration and citizenship in the United States. As the nation grapples with these issues, it remains to be seen whether Trump’s vision for altering birthright citizenship will become a reality.
