WASHINGTON, April 1, 2026
The US Supreme Court heard arguments Tuesday in a case examining the scope of birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment, a constitutional provision granting citizenship to those born in the United States.
The legal challenge centers on whether the amendment’s language—"all persons born in the US and subject to its jurisdiction are citizens"—applies uniformly or permits exceptions. Former President Donald Trump, whose policies on immigration and citizenship have reignited debate over the clause, was frequently referenced during proceedings.
Chief Justice John Roberts and other justices questioned attorneys on the historical intent and modern interpretation of the amendment. D. John Sauer, representing one of the parties, argued for a narrower reading, while legal scholar Christian Lammert emphasized its broad protections in prior rulings.
The case has drawn national attention as it could reshape long-standing interpretations of US citizenship. No immediate timeline was given for the court’s decision.
The 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, was originally designed to guarantee citizenship for formerly enslaved people and their descendants. Its application to children of undocumented immigrants has been contested in recent decades.