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Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Order to End Birthright Citizenship
A second US federal judge has blocked Trump's executive order to end birthright citizenship. Judge Deborah Boardman reaffirmed that "birthright citizenship remains the law and tradition."
ND
by News Desk
2025-02-06
Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Order to End Birthright Citizenship

A second United States federal judge has blocked former President Donald Trump’s executive order that sought to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants.

Maryland District Judge Deborah Boardman issued the ruling, reinforcing the legal status quo. “Today, virtually every baby born on US soil is a US citizen upon birth,” she stated. “That is the law and tradition of our country. That law and tradition are and will remain the status quo pending the resolution of this case.”

Legal Challenges Against Trump's Executive Order

The controversial executive order, signed on January 20, immediately sparked nationwide legal challenges. A separate Seattle-based federal judge had already declared the order "blatantly unconstitutional."

In total, 22 states and numerous organizations have filed lawsuits, asserting that the order undermines the 14th Amendment, which guarantees citizenship to anyone born in the United States.

Historical Context of Birthright Citizenship

The principle of birthright citizenship has been upheld in the US for more than 150 years, originating from the ratification of the 14th Amendment in 1868. The amendment was introduced to ensure citizenship rights for former slaves and free African Americans after the Civil War.

Legal experts interpret the clause as granting citizenship to anyone born in the US, with exceptions such as children of foreign diplomats.

Trump's Misrepresentation

Hours after taking office, Trump falsely claimed that the US is the only country that grants birthright citizenship, calling it "absolutely ridiculous." However, this assertion is inaccurate. According to the CIA World Factbook, at least 33 countries, predominantly in the Americas, offer unconditional birthright citizenship.

What’s Next?

As legal battles continue, the principle of jus soli (right of land) remains protected under current US law. Legal scholars have highlighted the significance of defending the 14th Amendment as a fundamental constitutional safeguard.
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