A U.S. federal judge has temporarily stopped former President Donald Trump from enforcing an executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children born to undocumented immigrants or mothers on tourist and student visas. Judge John C. Coughenour of the Western District of Washington labeled the order “blatantly unconstitutional,” citing its conflict with the 14th Amendment.
The ruling follows lawsuits from Washington, Illinois, Oregon, and Arizona, which argued that denying citizenship to an estimated 150,000 babies annually would not only strip them of benefits but also severely impact federal funding for states. Attorneys for the states emphasized that no president has the authority to alter constitutional provisions to suit political goals. Historical testimonies were also referenced to underline the amendment’s inviolability.
This temporary restraining order halts the executive action, pending further legal challenges. The order has sparked nationwide opposition, with 18 other states filing lawsuits. Trump’s presidency was marked by similar controversial policies, including measures affecting gender recognition and workplace dynamics, further highlighting the administration’s sweeping approach to redefining governance norms.