Trump declares border emergency and seeks to end US birthright citizenship

In a significant move, President Donald Trump has taken decisive action regarding immigration policies since his inauguration. He has signed a series of executive orders aimed at tightening immigration controls, including a controversial proposal to redefine birthright citizenship. This concept currently allows anyone born on U. S. soil to automatically become a citizen, regardless of their parents' immigration status. Trump's intention appears to be to alter this rule, which could mean that children born to undocumented immigrants would no longer be granted citizenship at birth. This proposed change is particularly contentious, as it would require a constitutional amendment, necessitating a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of Congress. As a result, many experts believe that this initiative will face significant legal and political challenges. The reaction to Trump's immigration orders has been swift and fierce. Advocacy groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, have expressed outrage, stating that denying citizenship to U. S. -born children is not only unconstitutional but also a betrayal of American values. They have announced plans to challenge Trump's administration in court, arguing that such actions undermine the principles of equality and justice that the nation was built upon. In his inaugural address, Trump made bold claims about halting illegal immigration and deporting millions of what he referred to as 'criminal aliens. ' He also designated Mexican drug cartels as terrorist organizations, emphasizing his commitment to national security. At a rally in Washington, D. C. , Trump took further steps to dismantle the policies of his predecessor, Joe Biden, revoking nearly 80 executive actions aimed at reforming immigration. Another significant change involves the termination of the CBP One mobile application, which was designed to help migrants schedule appointments for legal entry into the U. S. This app had been credited with reducing the number of detentions at the border since its introduction in January 2023. With the app now discontinued, many migrants who had been waiting for appointments feel disheartened and uncertain about their futures. Reports indicate that approximately 30,000 appointments had been scheduled for migrants to enter the U. S. in the coming weeks, and the sudden removal of this legal pathway has left many feeling defeated. One migrant from Mexico, who had been waiting for an appointment for seven months, expressed her despair, hoping for a change of heart from Trump. Trump's administration has also ended a program that allowed up to 30,000 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela to enter the U. S. each month. This initiative was part of a broader strategy to reduce illegal crossings and provide a safe haven for those fleeing violence and persecution. The backlash from immigration advocacy groups has been significant, with leaders expressing disappointment and concern over the potential impact of these orders on families and the economy. They argue that Trump's policies will lead to family separations and exacerbate the challenges faced by immigrant communities. As the situation unfolds, many are calling for immediate action from elected officials to counter these changes and protect the rights of immigrants in the United States. The ongoing debate over immigration policy remains a contentious issue, with Trump's administration poised to make further changes that could reshape the landscape of immigration in the country.