How Do Americans Really Feel About Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Proposal?

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President Trump’s executive order to end birthright citizenship for children of certain migrants sparks nationwide debate and reveals surprising public support.

Quick Takes

  • 45% of Americans support Trump’s attempt to curb birthright citizenship, while 37% oppose it
  • The executive order targets children of migrants on temporary visas or illegally in the US
  • Support is highest among Republicans (69%) and in the Southern states (51%)
  • Latino respondents show both significant opposition (42%) and support (39%)
  • President Trump’s approval rating stands at 49%, with 41% disapproving

Trump’s Bold Move on Birthright Citizenship

On January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order aiming to redefine the parameters of birthright citizenship in the United States. This action, which seeks to protect what the administration calls “the value and meaning of U.S. citizenship,” has ignited a fierce nationwide debate on immigration policy and constitutional interpretation.

The executive order specifically targets children born to mothers who are either unlawfully present in the U.S. or on temporary visas, with fathers who are not U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. This move represents a significant shift in the interpretation of the 14th Amendment, which has traditionally been understood to grant citizenship to all persons born on U.S. soil.

Public Opinion: A Surprising Shift

Contrary to what some might expect, a recent Emerson College poll reveals that more Americans support President Trump’s attempt to curb birthright citizenship than oppose it. The survey, conducted shortly after the inauguration, shows 45% of respondents in favor of the rollback, with 37% against and 19% neutral or undecided.

This support varies significantly across party lines and regions. Republicans show the strongest backing at 69%, while 25% of Democrats and 38% of independents also favor the measure. Geographically, the South leads in support with 51% approval.

Latino Response and Broader Immigration Views

Interestingly, Latino respondents demonstrate a complex reaction to the executive order. While they show the highest opposition at 42%, a significant 39% express support for the measure. This split highlights the nuanced perspectives within the Latino community on immigration issues.

Despite the support for this specific policy, the poll also illuminates broader trends in public sentiment on immigration. A majority (56%) favor a pathway to citizenship for undocumented migrants already in the country. However, opinions are more divided on allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to conduct searches in sensitive locations like schools and churches, with 44% against and 41% in favor.

Trump’s Approval and National Optimism

The implementation of this policy comes at a time when President Trump is enjoying a net positive approval rating. According to the Emerson College poll, 49% of Americans approve of his job performance, while 41% disapprove. This +8% net approval marks a strong start to his term.

“President Trump’s 49% job approval rating closely reflects his share of national support in the 2024 election, and his 41% disapproval is the lowest it has been in Emerson national polls dating back to his first term,” said Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling.

Moreover, there’s a noticeable uptick in national optimism following the inauguration. The poll indicates that 52% of Americans now believe the country is on the right track, reflecting a slight increase in public confidence under the new administration.

Looking Ahead

As the debate over birthright citizenship continues, it’s clear that this issue will remain at the forefront of national discourse. The executive order’s implementation, scheduled to take effect 30 days after its issuance, is already facing legal challenges and intense scrutiny. With public opinion divided and strong feelings on both sides, the coming months will be crucial in determining the future of this longstanding aspect of American citizenship law.