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Constitutional Amendment Proposed to Restrict Birthright Citizenship

Catherine Wells 04.07.2026

Challenging a Long-Standing Principle

Republican lawmakers are pushing for a constitutional amendment to limit birthright citizenship after the Supreme Court upheld the existing law. The move follows a Tuesday ruling by the Supreme Court. President Donald Trump's allies are backing the effort. The proposal is gaining momentum among Republican lawmakers.

The existing law grants citizenship to anyone born in the United States, regardless of their parents' nationality. Critics argue that this law is being exploited by foreign nationals. They claim that some individuals are coming to the US solely to give birth and secure citizenship for their children.

Can the Amendment Succeed?

Senator Mike Lee, a Republican from Utah, is leading the charge for the constitutional amendment. He believes that a real, lasting change requires a constitutional amendment. The proposed amendment aims to restrict citizenship to those with a legitimate connection to the US.

The Supreme Court's ruling on Tuesday reinforced the current law, which has been in place for over 150 years. The court's decision was seen as a setback by those seeking to limit birthright citizenship. However, Republican lawmakers are undeterred and are now pushing for a constitutional amendment.

The proposal faces significant hurdles, including opposition from Democrats and some Republicans. To pass a constitutional amendment, two-thirds of both the House and Senate must approve it, or a national convention must be called. The outlook is uncertain, but proponents are determined to push forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

The consequences of the proposed amendment are far-reaching. If passed, it could significantly alter the country's immigration landscape. Thousands of people born in the US to foreign parents could be affected.

What is birthright citizenship? Birthright citizenship is the principle that anyone born in the US is automatically a US citizen. How would the proposed amendment change current law? The amendment would restrict citizenship to those with a legitimate connection to the US. What are the chances of the amendment passing? The proposal faces significant opposition, making its passage uncertain.

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