Federal Judge blocks Trump's executive order on Birthright Citizenship, declaring it 'blatantly unconstitutional'

World News: In a significant victory for immigrants, a federal judge has intervened to block President Donald Trump's executive order that sought to limit automatic birthright citizenship in the United States. This ruling, issued on Thursday, was deemed "blatantly unconstitutional" by U.S. District Judge John Coughenour, who is based in Seattle.

Judge's Ruling on Birthright Citizenship

The temporary restraining order was granted at the request of four states—Washington, Arizona, Illinois, and Oregon—led by Democratic governors. This decision marks the first legal challenge against Trump’s stringent immigration policies since he resumed office. Judge Coughenour, a Reagan appointee with over four decades of judicial experience, expressed his disbelief at the Justice Department's defense of the executive order. "I am having trouble understanding how a member of the bar could state unequivocally that this order is constitutional," he remarked during the proceedings.

Trump's Response

President Trump has announced plans to appeal the ruling. "Obviously we'll appeal," he stated, indicating his administration's commitment to pursuing the controversial policy.

Implications of Trump's Executive Order

The executive order aimed to redefine citizenship for children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents. Under this directive, children born after February 19 would not be recognized as U.S. citizens if neither parent holds citizenship or lawful permanent residency. This policy could potentially affect over 150,000 newborns annually, denying them citizenship rights and access to various government benefits.

Legal Arguments Presented

During the hearing, Washington state assistant attorney general Lane Polozola highlighted the potential consequences of Trump’s policy: “Under this order, babies being born today don't count as US citizens.” The Justice Department's attorney, Brett Shumate, argued for the constitutionality of Trump’s actions but faced immediate pushback from Judge Coughenour, who swiftly signed the restraining order.

The debate centers around the interpretation of the 14th Amendment, which guarantees citizenship to anyone born on U.S. soil. Trump's administration contends that children of non-citizens are not "subject to the jurisdiction" of the United States and therefore should not receive citizenship.

As legal battles continue over this contentious issue, it remains to be seen how this ruling will impact future immigration policies and the lives of countless families in America.