On Inauguration Day, President Donald Trump signed an executive order ending birthright citizenship, a move that has quickly sparked legal challenges. A lawsuit filed in Massachusetts federal court described the order as “flagrantly illegal,” arguing that it seeks to strip a right that has long been integral to American identity, as enshrined in the 14th Amendment.
The plaintiffs—an undocumented pregnant woman due in March, along with two nonprofit organizations—contend that the executive order would be devastating, potentially rendering millions stateless and causing lasting harm to those affected. The lawsuit calls for the court to declare the order unconstitutional and prevent its enforcement.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) also filed a lawsuit, condemning the executive order as not only unconstitutional but as an attack on American values.
ACLU Executive Director Anthony D. Romero emphasized that birthright citizenship is a cornerstone of American identity and that the order would create a permanent underclass in the U.S.
In a call with reporters, incoming White House officials outlined additional executive actions related to immigration and border security. These measures included declaring a national emergency at the border, reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and completing the southern border wall.
The administration also planned to designate drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, end asylum claims between ports of entry, suspend refugee resettlement, and implement enhanced vetting for migrants. Trump’s officials further discussed targeting undocumented gang members and criminals and restoring the death penalty for law enforcement officers killed by undocumented migrants.
While these actions were previewed, many would require cooperation from international partners and could face legal challenges.
