End Birthright US Citizenship: Second Federal Judge Blocks US President Trump’s Order

A federal judge has once again halted President Donald Trump's executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to individuals residing illegally. US District Judge Deborah Boardman stated that no court has supported the Trump administration's interpretation of the 14th Amendment, and her court would not be the first to do so.

The 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868 after the Civil War, guarantees citizenship to all persons born or naturalised in the United States. This amendment was initially intended to ensure citizenship for former slaves and free African Americans. The Trump administration argues that children of noncitizens are not "subject to the jurisdiction" of the US and thus should not receive citizenship.

Legal Challenges Against Executive Order

The executive order had already faced a temporary nationwide hold due to a separate lawsuit filed by four states in Washington state. In total, 22 states and various organisations have taken legal action against this order. A judge in Washington previously labelled it as "blatantly unconstitutional." Judge Boardman, nominated by former President Joe Biden, agreed to a preliminary injunction following a hearing in Greenbelt, Maryland.

Immigrant-rights advocacy groups CASA and Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project, along with several expectant mothers, brought the lawsuit before Judge Boardman. They argue that birthright citizenship is fundamental to American democracy and has fostered a shared sense of national identity across generations.

Political Divide Over Birthright Citizenship

While Democratic attorneys general from 22 states are working to block Trump's order, 18 Republican attorneys general have announced their intention to defend it by joining one of the federal lawsuits filed in New Hampshire. The US is among approximately 30 countries where birthright citizenship is recognised, with most located in the Americas, including Canada and Mexico.

During his first week in office, Trump signed ten executive orders related to immigration. These included directives for mass deportations and border security enhancements. Some actions were implemented immediately, while others face legal challenges or may take years to materialise but have caused fear within immigrant communities.

Financial Implications and Future Actions

The potential implementation of Trump's agenda might hinge on financial considerations. Congress is expected to deliberate on funding support soon. Trump could resort to emergency powers to access Defence Department funds, similar to his approach during his first term for building a border wall.