Vice President JD Vance delivered a keynote address at the Claremont Institute, focusing on the administration’s hardline stance on immigration. He presented a vision of American citizenship that prioritizes ancestral ties and shared history over simply adhering to American values. This stance aligns with the administration’s actions, including increased funding for immigration enforcement and potential moves to end birthright citizenship. Vance’s remarks suggest a regressive view of citizenship, contrasting with the existing definition rooted in values and enshrined in the Constitution.
Read More
Rob Worsoff’s proposed reality show, “The American,” aims to celebrate American citizenship, not to create a dystopian competition. The show, currently under review by the Department of Homeland Security, would feature immigrant contestants competing in challenges related to American history and science for fast-tracked citizenship. Contrary to criticism, losing contestants would receive prizes, not deportation. DHS confirms receiving the proposal, but denies Secretary Noem’s involvement, stating all proposals undergo a thorough review process.
Read More
The Trump administration, in legal filings challenging birthright citizenship, argued that the Fourteenth Amendment’s citizenship clause requires individuals to be “subject to the jurisdiction thereof,” citing the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which excluded “Indians not taxed.” This interpretation, supported by the Supreme Court’s Elk v. Wilkins decision denying citizenship to Native Americans due to tribal allegiance, contends that the government’s connection to children of undocumented immigrants is weaker than its relationship with tribal members. This position represents a significant shift from the government’s previous stance on Native American citizenship.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker