As the Supreme Court prepared to hear arguments on whether to allow President Donald Trump’s restrictions on birthright citizenship to take effect, he made a striking claim on Truth Social: that the United States is the only country in the world that grants citizenship simply by being born on its soil.

This claim is false.

Back on January 20, the first day of his second term, Trump signed an executive order aimed at denying citizenship to children born in the U.S. to parents who are here illegally or only temporarily. However, lower courts quickly blocked this order nationwide, and the administration is now appealing these decisions, challenging the authority of judges to issue such broad injunctions. Importantly, the Supreme Court has not yet ruled on whether the executive order itself is constitutional.

Let’s break down the facts.

Trump’s Claim vs. Reality

On Truth Social, Trump said:
“The United States of America is the only Country in the World that does this, for what reason, nobody knows.”

But the truth is quite different.

According to the CIA World Factbook and the Library of Congress, about 30 countries worldwide offer unconditional birthright citizenship, including Canada, Mexico, and many nations in Africa and Asia. The U.S. is far from unique in this regard.

“The statement is pretty obviously wrong,” says Ilya Somin, a law professor at George Mason University and expert on constitutional law and migration rights. “Many countries have birthright citizenship, though in some of them the rules differ from those in the U.S.”

What Is Birthright Citizenship?

Birthright citizenship is based on the principle of jus soli — Latin for “right of the soil.” It means that anyone born within a country’s borders automatically gains citizenship, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.

This contrasts with jus sanguinis, or “right of blood,” where citizenship depends on the nationality of one’s parents or ancestors.

In the U.S., birthright citizenship is nearly unconditional. Children born on American soil are citizens, except for two narrow exceptions: children of foreign diplomats and children of enemy soldiers occupying the country during wartime. Historically, Native Americans were excluded until the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924.

A Historical Foundation

Birthright citizenship was enshrined in the U.S. Constitution after the Civil War to guarantee citizenship for formerly enslaved people. The 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, states:

“All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.”

This Citizenship Clause overturned the infamous 1857 Dred Scott decision, which held that Black people — enslaved or free — could not be citizens. It was a monumental shift in American history, affirming citizenship rights regardless of race or parentage (with the limited exceptions noted).

Trump’s Executive Order Faces Legal Hurdles

Trump’s executive order attempts to restrict birthright citizenship in a way that conflicts with longstanding Supreme Court precedent, notably a decision from 1898 that confirmed the Citizenship Clause grants citizenship to all born on U.S. soil except in very specific, rare cases.

Currently, the Supreme Court is considering this case alongside other immigration-related appeals brought by the Trump administration.

What This Means

The U.S. is not unique in offering birthright citizenship — many countries around the world have similar policies. The ongoing legal battle will determine whether Trump’s effort to limit this constitutional right can move forward, but the claim that the U.S. stands alone on this issue is simply wrong.

As the debate unfolds, understanding the history and facts behind birthright citizenship helps cut through the political rhetoric and misinformation.

Source: AP News – FACT FOCUS: Trump claims the US is the only country with birthright citizenship. It’s not

The post Trump’s Claim That Only the U.S. Has Birthright Citizenship Is False appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Spike in Inquiries

Consultancies specializing in investment migration have reported a dramatic surge in inquiries following the recent election. Henley & Partners, credited with pioneering the golden visa concept in the 1990s, saw a 400% increase in U.S. inquiries the week of the election compared to the previous week. Similarly, Arton Capital reported a fivefold increase in inquiries the day after Trump’s win was announced.

For most, the appeal lies in securing a safety net. “It’s about having options, like an insurance policy,” said Dominic Volek of Henley & Partners. Despite this surge, only a small fraction of Americans plan to permanently relocate; many are simply seeking the security of an alternative residence or citizenship.

Rising Demand Among Affluent Americans

Historically, golden visas have been more popular among elites from countries experiencing greater political or economic instability. However, the U.S. became a growing market during the COVID-19 pandemic when travel restrictions highlighted the advantages of dual citizenship. According to Henley & Partners, U.S. nationals have since become the largest group applying for these programs.

European destinations are particularly attractive, with Portugal leading the way. Its Golden Residence Permit Program offers a relatively affordable entry point at €250,000 ($265,000) for investments in cultural heritage, along with a path to EU citizenship in just five years. Wealthier applicants often opt for programs in Malta or Austria, which provide immediate citizenship at significantly higher costs — upwards of €600,000 ($636,000) in Malta and €3.5 million ($3.7 million) in Austria.

Interest Extends Beyond the Super-Rich

While golden visas cater to the wealthy, middle-class Americans are also exploring ways to leave the country. Social media platforms, YouTube, and Reddit have become hubs for discussions about emigration options. A YouTube video titled “Countries for Americans Who Want to Leave the US” recently amassed over half a million views, while Reddit threads on relocating post-election are buzzing with activity.

Some are driven by fears of discrimination or threats to their rights. Flannery Foster, an American in Spain who assists others with relocation, said she is receiving numerous inquiries from groups like women, Black Americans, and LGBTQ+ individuals. “These people are not your golden visa applicants,” Foster noted, emphasizing their desire to find safety while retaining U.S. citizenship to preserve their voting rights.

An Unprecedented Trend

Immigration consultants are witnessing unprecedented demand. David Lesperance, a veteran in tax and immigration advisory, said he has consulted with three to four Americans daily since the election — an intensity he hasn’t seen in his 34 years of practice.

This wave of interest reflects a growing sentiment among Americans seeking alternative residency options amidst heightened political division, social tensions, and fears about the future. While many are unlikely to leave the U.S. entirely, they are investing in avenues to protect their personal and financial security in uncertain times.

Source

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