GOP Presidential Debate: Vivek Ramaswamy Calls for Ending Birthright Citizenship for Children of Illegal Immigrants in US

GOP Presidential Debate: Vivek Ramaswamy Calls for Ending Birthright Citizenship for Children of Illegal Immigrants in US

Divisive Stance in the GOP Presidential Debate

During the second GOP presidential debate, the issue of birthright citizenship rose to the forefront of discussion. Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy proposed ending birthright citizenship for children born to illegal immigrants in the United States. This proposal was a significant extension of his previous arguments, which included militarizing the southern border and cutting funds for sanctuary cities.

Interpreting the 14th Amendment

Ramaswamy’s contention is that the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution does not back birthright citizenship for children of illegal immigrants. He found support in this view from Senator Tim Scott, who stated that the Amendment was originally designed to address the issue of slavery, not illegal immigration. Ramaswamy further argued that the government’s failure to enforce its own laws undermines the rule of law, which he viewed as a fundamental principle of American identity.

Debating Historical and Legal Precedent

Opponents of the proposal to end birthright citizenship argue that such a move would misrepresent the history of the 14th Amendment and ignore years of legal precedent. The Supreme Court recognized in United States v. Wong Kim Ark in 1898 that children born within the territory of the United States, regardless of their parents’ immigration status, are indeed citizens. This ruling is seen as a clear manifestation of the intention of the 14th Amendment.

Controversial Proposals and Campaign Rhetoric

Throughout his campaign, Ramaswamy has consistently promoted controversial policy ideas. One such idea is the proposed stripping of citizenship and deportation of individuals born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrant parents. Another controversial proposal is the removal of voting rights for 18 to 24-year-olds unless they pass a civics test. Ramaswamy argues that there is no reason why every high school graduate should not have to pass the same civics test that immigrants must pass to become citizens.

Challenging Constitutional Amendments

Ramaswamy’s proposals challenge the interpretation and application of constitutional amendments. The requirement for young voters to take a civics test appears to contradict the 26th Amendment of the Constitution, which grants citizens aged 18 years or older the right to vote. The proposal to end access to birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants has also been criticized as contravening the 14th Amendment.

Implications of Policy Changes

If implemented, Ramaswamy’s proposals would represent significant changes to current immigration and citizenship policies. The candidate has acknowledged that these changes would be shocking and potentially disruptive. However, he argues that such measures are necessary to uphold the rule of law and ensure fairness in the immigration process.

Future of the Citizenship Debate

The debate over birthright citizenship and immigration policies is likely to continue as the 2024 Republican presidential primary progresses. The proposal to end birthright citizenship, in particular, is gaining traction among several Republican hopefuls. Regardless of the outcome of the election, these discussions signal a shifting landscape in the discourse surrounding immigration and citizenship in the United States.