Congressional Democrats Welcome Supreme Court Ruling Upholding Birthright Citizenship

Democratic leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives welcomed the Supreme Court's decision affirming birthright citizenship, calling it a victory for the U.S. Constitution and immigrant communities across the country.

Leaders of the Congressional Tri-Caucus composed of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), and Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) joined the New Democrat Coalition and the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) at a press conference following the Court's ruling.

The lawmakers said the Supreme Court's decision rejected former President Donald Trump's executive order that sought to end birthright citizenship, reaffirming the Fourteenth Amendment's guarantee that individuals born on U.S. soil are U.S. citizens.

Rep. Grace Meng, Chair of CAPAC, described the ruling as a reaffirmation of a constitutional promise that has stood for more than 150 years. Meng, the daughter of immigrants, said birthright citizenship made it possible for her to become an American citizen and serve in Congress, adding that millions of immigrant families have similarly been able to pursue the American dream.

Rep. Adriano Espaillat, Chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, said the Court rejected what he called an attempt to undermine one of the nation's clearest constitutional protections. He said the caucus remains committed to defending the Constitution and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to achieve the American dream.

Congressional Black Caucus First Vice Chair Rep. Troy Carter emphasized that the Fourteenth Amendment was adopted after the Civil War to guarantee the citizenship of formerly enslaved Americans and prevent discrimination based on race. While welcoming the ruling, Carter said Democrats remain vigilant against future efforts to challenge constitutional rights and civil liberties.

Rep. Greg Casar, Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, said citizenship is a birthright regardless of a person's parents' birthplace, language, or religion. He argued that no president has the authority to determine who is or is not an American citizen and called for continued efforts to protect constitutional rights.

Rep. Derek Tran, representing the New Democrat Coalition, shared his family's story as the son of refugee parents, saying America's willingness to welcome immigrants allowed him to serve in the U.S. Army, build a business, and eventually represent California in Congress. He said his experience reflects the story of many American families and underscored the importance of protecting the nation's fundamental rights.

The lawmakers said the Supreme Court's decision reaffirms the Fourteenth Amendment and preserves a long-standing constitutional principle that has shaped generations of Americans. They also pledged to continue opposing efforts they believe would weaken constitutional protections for immigrants and U.S.-born citizens.