President Trump’s executive order to end birthright citizenship for children of migrants sparks controversy and gains surprising public support.
Quick Takes
- 45% of Americans support Trump’s attempt to curb birthright citizenship, while 37% oppose it
- The executive order aims to end automatic citizenship for children of illegal immigrants and temporary visa holders
- Support is highest among Republicans (69%) and in the Southern states (51%)
- The order faces potential legal challenges due to its interpretation of the 14th Amendment
- President Trump’s approval rating stands at 49%, with a net positive of +8%
Trump’s Bold Move on Birthright Citizenship
On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order aimed at redefining the parameters of birthright citizenship in the United States. The order, which has ignited a firestorm of debate, seeks to end automatic citizenship for children born to illegal immigrants and those on temporary visas. This move aligns with Trump’s longstanding promise to reform immigration policies and strengthen national security.
The executive order emphasizes the “profound gift” of U.S. citizenship and argues that the 14th Amendment does not universally grant citizenship to everyone born on American soil. It specifically targets two groups: children born to mothers unlawfully present in the U.S., and those born to mothers with temporary legal status, provided the father is not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident in both cases.
Public Opinion: A Surprising Shift
Despite the controversial nature of the order, a recent Emerson College poll reveals broad public support for Trump’s initiative. The survey, conducted among 1,000 registered voters, shows that 45% of Americans favor the rollback of birthright citizenship, while 37% oppose it, and 19% remain neutral or undecided.
The poll highlights significant partisan divides, with Republicans showing the strongest support (69%) for ending birthright citizenship. However, the policy also garners support from 25% of Democrats and 38% of independents, indicating a complex landscape of public opinion on this sensitive issue.
Americans support Trump’s birthright citizenship rollback, new poll reveals https://t.co/pzmcrH1t5e
— Independent US (@IndyUSA) January 30, 2025
Regional and Demographic Perspectives
Support for Trump’s birthright citizenship policy varies across regions and demographics. The Southern states show the highest approval at 51%, potentially reflecting concerns about illegal immigration in border areas. Interestingly, Latino respondents display a nuanced stance, with 39% supporting the measure and 42% opposing it, underscoring the diversity of views within various communities on immigration issues.
“President Trump’s 49% job approval rating closely reflects his share of national support in the 2024 election, and his 41% disapproval is the lowest it has been in Emerson national polls dating back to his first term,” said Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling.
The poll also reveals broader trends in public sentiment on immigration. A majority of Americans (56%) support a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, suggesting a desire for comprehensive immigration reform. However, opinions are divided on allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to conduct searches in schools and churches, with 44% against and 41% in favor.
Legal Challenges and Implementation
The executive order faces potential legal hurdles due to its interpretation of the 14th Amendment. Critics argue that the order may be unconstitutional, setting the stage for a plethora of court challenges. The order tasks the Secretary of State, Attorney General, Secretary of Homeland Security, and Commissioner of Social Security with ensuring compliance, and requires all executive departments and agencies to issue public guidance on implementation within 30 days.
As the debate unfolds, it’s clear that President Trump’s move to redefine birthright citizenship has tapped into deep-seated concerns about immigration and national identity. With public opinion showing support and the legal battles looming, this issue is set to remain at the forefront of America’s political discourse for the foreseeable future.
