Former President Donald Trump is set to make headlines by signing an executive order on his first day in office that would end birthright citizenship for children born to undocumented immigrants in the United States. The controversial move, confirmed by incoming White House officials, marks the start of a series of sweeping actions on immigration and border security.
Ending Birthright Citizenship: What’s Changing
The executive order will end the automatic granting of citizenship to children born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants. According to officials, the policy change will be implemented prospectively and executed through executive action, as discussed during a Monday morning briefing.
While Trump had hinted at this change during his campaign, legal experts anticipate significant challenges due to its potential conflict with the 14th Amendment. The amendment explicitly states:
“All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.”
Critics argue that removing birthright citizenship contradicts constitutional protections, setting the stage for a likely legal showdown.
Broader Immigration Measures on Day One
The end of birthright citizenship is part of a larger plan to implement 10 executive orders focusing on border security and immigration reform. These measures aim to address national security and public safety concerns. Key initiatives include:
Termination of Catch-and-Release Policies
Policies that allow undocumented immigrants to remain in the U.S. while awaiting court proceedings will end.
Reinstating the Remain in Mexico Policy
This policy mandates asylum seekers wait in Mexico while their claims are processed.
Resumption of Border Wall Construction
Construction of the border wall will resume, with additional resources allocated to physical barriers.
Declaring a National Emergency at the Southern Border
The declaration will authorize the deployment of armed forces and National Guard troops to enforce border security.
Immigration Policy Overhauls
Additional measures targeting immigration include:
Elimination of Asylum Options
The administration plans to halt asylum opportunities and expedite deportation of undocumented immigrants.
Temporary Suspension of Refugee Resettlement
Refugee admissions will be paused for at least four months, pending further review.
Increased Scrutiny on Migrants from Certain Countries
The federal government will recommend suspending entry for citizens of nations deemed to pose particular risks.
Targeting Criminal Organizations
Trump’s executive orders will also designate certain criminal organizations, including Tren de Aragua and MS-13, as “global terrorists.” This designation will grant broader authority for deportations and other actions against individuals affiliated with these groups.
Controversial Changes Ahead
In addition to immigration reforms, Trump’s plans for his first day include signing nearly 200 executive orders. These range from immigration policies to symbolic changes such as renaming the Gulf of Mexico and Mount Denali.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is birthright citizenship?
Birthright citizenship is the legal right for all children born on U.S. soil to automatically receive citizenship, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.
How does the 14th Amendment affect birthright citizenship?
The 14th Amendment guarantees citizenship to all individuals born in the U.S., which complicates efforts to eliminate birthright citizenship through an executive order.
Can an executive order override the Constitution?
No. Any executive order contradicting the Constitution is subject to judicial review and can be struck down by courts.
What is the ‘Remain in Mexico’ policy?
This policy requires asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their claims are reviewed in U.S. immigration courts.
How will the national emergency impact the border?
The national emergency declaration will allow the deployment of armed forces and authorize immediate construction of physical barriers along the southern border.
Conclusion
Donald Trump’s planned executive orders mark a decisive and controversial shift in U.S. immigration policy. While aimed at bolstering border security and addressing illegal immigration, these actions are expected to face legal and constitutional challenges. As the nation watches these policies unfold, the debate over their legality and ethical implications will likely dominate political discourse.