Supreme Court Strikes Down Trump Birthright Citizenship Order
The Supreme Court has struck down a Trump administration attempt to end birthright citizenship, delivering a 6-3 ruling that preserves the 14th Amendment's guarantee for nearly all infants born on U.S. soil.
The update
The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled against President Donald Trump’s executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship for nearly all individuals born on U.S. soil. The 6-3 decision, which aligns with a lower court’s ruling, declares the policy unconstitutional. Chief Justice John Roberts, writing for the majority, traced the practice to English common law, the 14th Amendment, and a 1898 Supreme Court precedent, stating there is insufficient evidence to support a dramatic revision of longstanding law.
Why it matters
This ruling represents a significant legal and political victory for the administration, effectively blocking a major campaign promise. It affirms that the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of citizenship applies to nearly all infants born on U.S. soil, regardless of their parents’ immigration status. The decision sets a definitive precedent on citizenship rights and highlights a deep divide within the Court.
What to watch
Trump has called the ruling “too bad for our country” and appealed to Republicans in Congress to pass legislation to constrict birthright citizenship. However, achieving this would likely require a constitutional amendment, a process that faces significant political hurdles. The ruling also raises questions about the administration’s ability to pursue other immigration policies in the face of judicial opposition.
Sources
- Al Jazeera — 6-3 ruling details, Chief Justice Roberts' opinion, Trump's reaction
- BBC — context on the landmark ruling and its impact on Trump