Trump Signs Orders on Birthright Citizenship and Birth Tourism

President Donald Trump signed two executive orders on Thursday, focusing on birthright citizenship and birth tourism. Trump criticized a previous Supreme Court decision as “very unfortunate,” stating that these new measures are a response to what he sees as misuse of the system.

“We’re making adjustments because it’s very unfair,” Trump declared. He argued that businesses have emerged around birthright citizenship, a practice he called “a disgrace.” The administration aims to prevent these practices, citing that “they’re buying their way in, and we’re not going to let it happen.”

The orders follow the Supreme Court’s rejection of a prior attempt by Trump to limit automatic birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment.

The White House stated these directives utilize existing executive and immigration authorities. The goal is to refine the criteria for automatic citizenship eligibility and target foreign individuals traveling to the U.S. for childbirth purposes.

According to Stephen Miller, White House deputy chief of staff for policy, the first order broadens the categories of people deemed ineligible for birthright citizenship. This includes “alien enemies of the United States, members of foreign terrorist organizations, and large categories of people who lobby and act on behalf of foreign governments.”

Miller also mentioned a second order, which for the first time in American history, seeks to ban birth tourism. The administration plans to deny visas to individuals entering the U.S. specifically to give birth and to those who arrange such travels.

Miller explained that Section 215(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act considers birth tourism “a fraud on the American system.” He described it as “a fraud against the American government.”

When asked about enforcement, Trump emphasized “big crackdowns” and stated that the order enables more forceful actions. Regarding possible court challenges, Trump expressed confidence, saying, “I think it will.”

Will Scharf, White House staff secretary, noted the orders focus on visa denials and law enforcement against organized birth tourism. He insisted the administration is using “legally validated means” that align with the Supreme Court’s decision.

The White House had not released the exact text of the executive orders at the time of the report.