A US federal judge

Deborah Boardman, has blocked Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at curtailing birthright citizenship, deeming it “blatantly unconstitutional”. Here’s what’s happening ¹ ²:

– Judge’s Ruling:

Boardman issued a nationwide preliminary injunction, preventing the order from taking effect on February 19. She cited the 14th Amendment’s citizenship clause, stating that anyone born in the US is a citizen, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.

– Legal Challenges: The order faced multiple lawsuits from immigrant rights groups, Democratic state attorneys general, and expectant mothers. At least eight cases were filed across the US, with judges in Seattle and Boston also considering injunctions.

– Potential Impact: If implemented, Trump’s order would have denied citizenship to children born to non-US citizen parents or those without lawful permanent residence. This could have affected over 150,000 newborns annually.

– Justice Department’s Stance: The Justice Department argued that prior administrations misinterpreted the 14th Amendment and that Trump’s order was a correction. However, Boardman rejected this, citing 125-year-old Supreme Court precedent and the nation’s 250-year history of citizenship by birth.

– Next Steps: The Trump administration may appeal Boardman’s decision. The Justice Department had previously stated it would “vigorously” defend Trump’s action.

The ruling maintains the status quo, ensuring birthright citizenship remains intact while the case is litigated.