Supreme Court Hears Arguments Over Trump's Birthright Citizenship Order

The case could have major implications for immigration policy and who qualifies for U.S. citizenship.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:52pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The U.S. Supreme Court has begun hearing arguments over the constitutionality of former President Donald Trump's executive order to end birthright citizenship for children born in the United States to non-citizens or undocumented immigrants. The case could have far-reaching implications for immigration policy and who qualifies for U.S. citizenship.

Why it matters

Birthright citizenship, which is guaranteed by the 14th Amendment, has been a cornerstone of U.S. immigration law for over a century. Trump's order sought to challenge this long-standing precedent, raising concerns about the potential erosion of civil rights and the status of millions of children born to immigrant families.

The details

During the Supreme Court proceedings, the justices are examining whether Trump's order exceeded the president's executive authority and if it violates the 14th Amendment's guarantee of citizenship for anyone born on U.S. soil. The case has drawn intense interest from both sides of the immigration debate, with advocates arguing the order would unfairly target vulnerable populations.

  • The Supreme Court began hearing arguments on the case on April 1, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who issued the executive order to end birthright citizenship.

U.S. Supreme Court

The highest court in the United States, which is hearing arguments on the constitutionality of Trump's order.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Birthright citizenship is a fundamental right that has been recognized for over a century. Overturning this precedent would be a dangerous and unconstitutional step.”

— Alejandro Mayorkas, Secretary of Homeland Security

“The president has the authority to interpret the Constitution and set policies regarding who qualifies for citizenship. This order is within his executive powers.”

— Stephen Miller, Former Senior Advisor to President Trump

What’s next

The Supreme Court is expected to issue a ruling on the case by the end of its current term in June 2026.

The takeaway

This case represents a high-stakes battle over the scope of presidential power and the fundamental rights of citizenship. The Court's decision could have sweeping implications for immigration policy and the lives of millions of children born in the United States.