Correct the birthplace citizenship interpretation for economic security
This essay is part of The Right Way Forward, Restoring America’s new think tank debate series in which leading conservative institutions argue the defining questions of the post-Trump era. Read about the series here.
TL;DR
- The current interpretation of the 14th Amendment regarding birthright citizenship is seen as an exploitation of the U.S. immigration system.
- Birth tourism, particularly from China, is a growing concern with national security implications.
- Children born in the U.S. to illegal immigrants are eligible for welfare benefits, K-12 education, and healthcare, imposing significant costs on taxpayers.
- Illegal immigrants receive more in government benefits and services than they pay in taxes.
- Low-skill immigration suppresses wages and employment for vulnerable U.S.-born workers, particularly affecting black males.
- The costs of mass illegal immigration are deemed economically and socially unsustainable.
- A reinterpretation of the 14th Amendment is proposed, requiring at least one parent to be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.