Republican attorneys general from 18 states are supporting the Trump administration's executive order on birthright citizenship through an amicus brief filing. The lead AG, Iowa AG Brenna Bird, argues that individuals coming on tourist visas to have anchor babies do not fall under the original meaning of the United States Constitution. Bird highlights the financial burden on taxpayers for healthcare costs associated with such births.
On the other side, 18 Democrat-led states have filed a lawsuit claiming the executive order is unconstitutional and unprecedented. The lawsuit argues that the President lacks the authority to alter citizenship laws.
The ACLU has also challenged the order, stating it is unconstitutional and against congressional intent and Supreme Court precedent. In response, the amicus brief filed by Republican AGs from various states focuses on the original meaning of the Fourteenth Amendment and reducing harm to the states.
The brief argues that the misinterpretation of the Citizenship Clause would continue to incentivize foreign nationals to give birth in the U.S., even if they enter illegally. It cites instances of pregnant women crossing the border in labor to ensure their child is born in the U.S.
President Trump's order, titled 'Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,' aims to limit birthright citizenship for children of illegal immigrants or those with temporary lawful presence. The order emphasizes upholding immigration laws and preventing rewards for illegal actions.
Overall, the debate surrounding birthright citizenship continues to be contentious, with legal challenges and differing interpretations of constitutional provisions at the forefront of the discussion.
