A federal judge has slammed President Donald Trump’s executive order to end birthright citizenship as “blatantly unconstitutional,” temporarily halting its implementation. Judge John Coughenour, a Reagan appointee in Seattle, granted a restraining order following a challenge by Democratic-led states, emphasizing that the Constitution’s 14th Amendment guarantees citizenship to all children born on U.S. soil.
“This is one of the clearest constitutional questions I’ve encountered in my four decades on the bench,” said Coughenour, questioning how any legal professional could defend the order. The judge’s decision pauses the policy for 14 days, giving time for further legal scrutiny.
Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, along with attorneys from other states, argued that the order undermines constitutional protections and inflicts immediate harm on families. “Babies are being born every day under a cloud of uncertainty about their citizenship,” said Lane Polozola, an attorney for Washington state. The policy could strip children of vital rights and benefits, creating significant long-term impacts, he added.
The Trump administration, however, claims the order aligns with the clause “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” in the 14th Amendment, arguing it allows for the exclusion of children born to undocumented immigrants or those without permanent legal status. Justice Department attorney Brett Shumate urged the court to delay a decision, cautioning against “snap judgments” on such a critical issue.
Trump, addressing reporters at the White House, confirmed his administration will challenge the ruling, while multiple lawsuits from immigrant rights groups and states continue to mount nationwide. Hearings are scheduled in Maryland and New Hampshire in the coming weeks to address requests for blocking the policy further.
This unfolding legal battle highlights the profound implications of the executive order on millions of families and the Constitution itself.
