Democratic Attorneys General Challenge Trump’s Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship

Attorneys General File Lawsuits to Block Trump’s Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship

A coalition of Democratic state attorneys general filed lawsuits yesterday to block former President Donald Trump's controversial executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship in the United States. Signed on Monday, the order limits citizenship to individuals with at least one U.S. citizen or permanent resident parent.

Legal scholars widely agree that the 14th Amendment guarantees birthright citizenship to anyone born on U.S. soil, excluding children of diplomats. California Attorney General Rob Bonta, a leading voice in the legal challenge, stated, “The executive order violates the 14th Amendment, the Immigration and Nationality Act, and over 125 years of Supreme Court precedent. The president has overstepped his authority, and we will hold him accountable.”

The executive order is set to take effect in a month, allowing courts time to block its implementation. In the meantime, immigrant advocacy groups are mobilizing to address the fear and uncertainty felt by communities affected by the potential policy change.

TODEC Steps in to Inform and Protect Communities
Local advocacy organization TODEC has ramped up its efforts to educate immigrants about their rights. The group has distributed "red cards," which outline constitutional protections, including the Fifth Amendment right to remain silent and the Fourth Amendment protection against unlawful searches. These tools are intended to empower individuals during encounters with law enforcement or immigration officials.

“Our hotline is available to report potential operations,” said a TODEC representative. “If there’s any indication of an ICE raid, our team is deployed to verify and assist.”

The fear of deportation has disrupted daily life for many undocumented individuals. Some have skipped work or classes to avoid potential raids. One college student shared, “I’m undocumented. After graduation, without a path to citizenship, my diploma may mean nothing. But I hold on to hope.”

TODEC continues to host workshops and provide resources, emphasizing preparation and community solidarity during this uncertain time.

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