The Supreme Court has agreed to review President Donald Trump's executive order on birthright citizenship. Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes is among those challenging the order, which would alter how the 14th Amendment is interpreted.
The order was blocked nationwide on July 10, leaving it in legal limbo. Mayes has been vocal in her opposition to the policy.
"The Democratic AGs, including me and the state of Arizona, are fighting for birthright citizenship. Donald Trump tried to eliminate the 14th Amendment and birthright citizenship," Mayes stated.
Mayes has participated in public debates, including one at ASU's Walter Cronkite School, where she argued that birthright citizenship is a constitutional right. She also noted the 14th Amendment was enacted after the Civil War to ensure children of formerly enslaved people could not be denied citizenship.
Continued Court Review
In September, the Trump administration asked the Supreme Court to review the case and determine whether Trump's policy is constitutional.
Last week, the Supreme Court agreed to hear arguments on Trump's authority in this matter. A ruling is expected next year.
Reports indicate that federal district judges have ruled the order unconstitutional, and two appeals courts have upheld injunctions blocking it.
The central legal questions include whether both parents must have legal status for their children to obtain citizenship, whether the order violates the Constitution, and whether the president has the authority to make such changes through executive action.
"If you were born in the United States, you were a citizen of the United States. Can't wait till the case is heard by the court," Mayes said.
Mayes and other attorneys general argue the order is unconstitutional and have challenged claims that children of undocumented immigrants aren't "subject to U.S. jurisdiction" under the 14th Amendment and is ready to for the court to see the case.
