Federal Appeals Court Rules Against Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Order
Introduction to the Issue
WASHINGTON — A federal appeals court ruled Wednesday that President Donald Trump’s order seeking to end birthright citizenship is unconstitutional, affirming a lower-court decision that blocked its enforcement nationwide.
The ruling from a divided panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals comes after Trump’s plan was also blocked by a federal judge in New Hampshire. It brings the issue one step closer to coming back quickly before the Supreme Court.
Understanding Birthright Citizenship
Birthright citizenship is the principle that anyone born in the United States is automatically a U.S. citizen, regardless of the citizenship status of their parents. This principle is enshrined in the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which states that “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.”
The Trump Administration’s Order
The Trump administration’s order sought to end birthright citizenship by reinterpreting the 14th Amendment. The order would have denied citizenship to children born to people who are in the United States illegally or temporarily.
The 9th Circuit’s Decision
The 9th Circuit blocks the Trump administration from enforcing the order that would deny citizenship to children born to people who are in the United States illegally or temporarily.
Implications of the Decision
The ruling is a significant setback for the Trump administration, which has made immigration a central issue of its agenda. The decision also highlights the ongoing debate over birthright citizenship and the role of the judiciary in interpreting the Constitution.
Related Developments
Related: Trump asks Supreme Court to partly allow birthright citizenship restrictions
Breaking News
Statement from the Court
“The district court correctly concluded that the Executive Order’s proposed interpretation, denying citizenship to many persons born in the United States, is unconstitutional. We fully agree,” the majority wrote.
Analysis of the Decision
The decision is a significant victory for immigrant rights groups, which have argued that the Trump administration’s order is a blatant attempt to undermine the Constitution. The ruling also underscores the importance of the judiciary in checking the power of the executive branch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the federal appeals court’s ruling against Trump’s birthright citizenship order is a significant development in the ongoing debate over immigration and the Constitution. The decision highlights the importance of the judiciary in interpreting the law and checking the power of the executive branch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is birthright citizenship?
Birthright citizenship is the principle that anyone born in the United States is automatically a U.S. citizen, regardless of the citizenship status of their parents.
What is the Trump administration’s order on birthright citizenship?
The Trump administration’s order seeks to end birthright citizenship by reinterpreting the 14th Amendment. The order would deny citizenship to children born to people who are in the United States illegally or temporarily.
What is the significance of the 9th Circuit’s decision?
The 9th Circuit’s decision is a significant setback for the Trump administration and highlights the ongoing debate over birthright citizenship and the role of the judiciary in interpreting the Constitution.
What are the implications of the decision for immigrant rights groups?
The decision is a significant victory for immigrant rights groups, which have argued that the Trump administration’s order is a blatant attempt to undermine the Constitution.
What is the next step in the process?
The issue is likely to be appealed to the Supreme Court, which will have the final say on the matter.

