Judge Blocks Trump's Order to End Birthright Citizenship

Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Order to End Birthright Citizenship
Described as a Radical Decision by Various Outlets
Here Are the Details

A federal judge in Seattle has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants or those with temporary status born in the United States.

This measure represents the first setback in Trump’s plans to reform the immigration system during his second term.

Judge John C. Coughenour, who has served on the bench for over four decades, described the order as «manifestly unconstitutional.»

«I cannot recall another case where the case presented is as clear as this one,» stated the judge, who was appointed in 1981 by former President Ronald Reagan.

Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Order to Eliminate Birthright Citizenship

Federal judge temporarily blocks Trump’s executive order against birthright citizenship https://t.co/l8wBRt9RqK via @TelemundoNews

— DayannaMonroy (@dayannamonroy) January 23, 2025

The U.S. Constitution, through its 14th Amendment, guarantees that anyone born on U.S. soil is automatically entitled to citizenship, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.

Trump’s decree, signed hours after taking office on Monday, stipulates that children of undocumented immigrants or those with temporary legal status, such as work visas, are not recognized as citizens.

This provision would have prevented the issuance of passports and access to basic rights for these children, limiting their employment opportunities and social protection.

The executive order faced a lawsuit filed by 22 states with Democratic governments, who argued that the measure violates the Constitution.

Judge Coughenour’s ruling responds to a request from four of those states and temporarily suspends the decree’s implementation for a period of 14 days, during which further legal appeals are expected.

The judge emphasized the clarity of the case by relying on constitutional precedents: «The 14th Amendment leaves no room for arbitrary interpretations,» he declared.

Political and Social Consequences of Ending Birthright Citizenship

#BREAKINGNEWS // Federal judge blocks Trump’s order to eliminate birthright citizenship for children of undocumented migrants, halting his attempt to reform immigration laws.

#USA #Citizenship pic.twitter.com/of9mFkkTXZ

— El Dato Noticias Morelos (@eldatomx) January 23, 2025

Trump’s decree, a central piece of his immigration plan, has been criticized by human rights organizations and legal experts.

«Eliminating birthright citizenship is not only unconstitutional but also puts at risk thousands of children who would be treated as foreigners in the country where they were born.»

This was stated by Maria Elena Hincapié, director of the National Immigration Law Center, as reported by EFE.

The Trump administration, on the other hand, has defended the decree as a necessary measure to «protect the interests of U.S. citizens,» according to a statement issued by the White House.

Uncertain Legal Path

With Judge Coughenour’s ruling, the executive order faces a significant but not definitive obstacle.

In the coming weeks, courts may decide whether to extend the suspension or allow the measure to proceed while the legal process continues.

The battle over birthright citizenship promises to become a central issue in immigration debates and in the legacy of Trump’s policies during his second term.

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