In early December 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to decide on President Donald Trump’s directive to curb birthright citizenship, a cornerstone of U.S. immigration law under the 14th Amendment. The justices will weigh whether the administration can instruct federal agencies not to recognize citizenship for children born on U.S. soil if neither parent holds citizenship or a green card.
The policy was first announced on January 20, 2025, Trump’s first day back in office, as part of a broader push to tighten immigration rules. Lower courts blocked the order, ruling it contravened both the 14th Amendment and federal statutes codifying birthright rights. The Department of Justice has since appealed, setting the stage for a high-stakes constitutional showdown.
Supporters of the directive argue it addresses “birth tourism” and reduces incentives for illegal immigration. “This case will have enormous consequences for the security of all Americans, and the sanctity of American citizenship,” said White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson. Opponents counter that it undermines a 19th-century guarantee. “No president can change the 14th Amendment’s fundamental promise of citizenship,” warned Cecillia Wang, national legal director of the ACLU.
The Supreme Court is expected to hear arguments during its current term and issue a ruling by June 2026. Observers say the outcome could affect millions of families and redefine how constitutional text is interpreted in the digital age—when cross-border migration and global mobility have never been more complex.
For young global citizens and changemakers, this case offers a window into how historic legal frameworks adapt to today’s migration challenges. Whether in Europe, Asia, or the Americas, the debate over birthright citizenship resonates with broader questions about identity, rights, and what it means to belong.
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Supreme Court to rule on Trump bid to curb birthright citizenship
cgtn.com
