Lawmakers were divided following the Supreme Court’s decision to reject President Donald Trump’s attempt to end birthright citizenship. The ruling allows children born in the United States to remain U.S. citizens.
Reactions from Lawmakers
Rep. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., expressed frustration, calling it a “terrible decision” and suggested regulating entry into the country. Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., agreed with regulating the immigration process but opposed denaturalizing those born in the U.S.
After the ruling, which challenged Trump’s executive order against birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment, opinions varied. Democrats generally supported the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the Constitution. Rep. Christian Menefee, D-Texas, declared the decision correct, emphasizing the Constitution’s clarity. Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., supported the Constitution’s standing, suggesting changes should be pursued through proper channels.
Political Impact
The 6-3 decision marked a notable setback for Trump’s immigration policies. The former president viewed birthright citizenship as encouraging illegal immigration. Critics, like Rep. Sarah Elfreth, D-Md., accused Trump of being overly focused on immigrants.
Justice Clarence Thomas, Justice Neil Gorsuch, and Justice Samuel Alito dissented, arguing that birthright citizenship should not extend to children of unlawful or temporary residents. Justice Alito pointed to “birth tourism” as a rising issue.
Some lawmakers, such as Rep. Ilhan Omar, D-Minn., and Rep. Maxine Waters, D-Calif., chose not to comment. Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., praised the decision, affirming the Constitution’s precedence over individual opinions.
Hannah works as a Production Assistant for the Politics team at Fox News Digital.