Washington D.C.: A recent poll conducted by the Associated Press has revealed that more Americans oppose than support President Donald Trump’s proposed changes to birthright citizenship. The survey, which was conducted in January 2025, found that only 3 in 10 American adults are in favor of amending the Constitution to prevent automatic citizenship for children born in the US to illegal immigrants and temporary residents.
Key Findings of the Poll
The poll showed that 28% of Americans strongly supported the end of birthright citizenship, while 20% were neutral on the issue. However, a majority (51%) of Americans opposed the proposal. The divide on this matter largely reflects political affiliations.
- Republicans: 53% of Republicans supported the end of birthright citizenship, with 26% opposed and 20% neutral.
- Democrats: 73% of Democrats opposed the policy, with only 11% in support and 15% neutral.
- Independents: Among Independents, 46% opposed the policy, while 23% supported it and 30% were neutral.
The poll was conducted from January 9-13, 2025, using a sample of 1,147 adults. The margin of error is ±3.9%.
Trump’s Executive Order on Birthright Citizenship
On his first day in office, Donald Trump signed an executive order titled “Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,” which seeks to end automatic birthright citizenship for children born in the US to illegal immigrants and temporary residents. This order is set to affect all children born in the US starting February 20, 2025.
“We’re the only country in the world that does this with birthright, as you know, and it’s just absolutely ridiculous,” Trump said when discussing the decision.
Birthright citizenship is currently guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment to the US Constitution, which 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.”
Legal and Political Implications
The Fourteenth Amendment has long been a cornerstone of the nation’s immigration policy. Trump’s proposed changes could lead to significant legal and political debates over the interpretation of the Constitution. The move also has international implications, with concerns about how it may affect temporary residents, including tourists, students, and those on work visas.
Conclusion
The poll indicates that while President Trump’s policy has Republican support, it remains highly controversial across the wider American public. With 51% of Americans opposing the policy, the debate over birthright citizenship is far from over and could continue to shape political discussions in the coming months.
