Federal Judge Blocks Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Order

A federal judge in New Hampshire has issued a nationwide injunction halting the Trump administration’s executive order restricting birthright citizenship, despite a recent Supreme Court ruling limiting nationwide injunctions. U.S. District Judge Joseph Laplante granted class action status to a lawsuit challenging the directive, allowing the injunction to take effect. The plaintiffs, including the American Civil Liberties Union, argued that the order violates the 14th Amendment, which guarantees citizenship to anyone born in the United States.
The Trump administration criticized the ruling, calling it an “unlawful attempt” to bypass the Supreme Court’s decision. White House spokesman Harrison Fields stated that the administration would “fight vigorously” to uphold President Trump’s policies. The order, set to take effect on July 27, would deny citizenship to U.S.-born children of illegal immigrants unless at least one parent is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Judge Laplante temporarily stayed his ruling to allow the administration to appeal and promised a detailed written opinion. The case hinges on whether the plaintiffs have standing to sue as a class and whether the executive order aligns with the Constitution. The 14th Amendment’s citizenship clause, originally intended for formerly enslaved African Americans, remains a central point of contention in the legal battle.
The injunction marks a significant setback for the Trump administration, which has argued that the order is constitutional and necessary to enforce immigration laws. Legal experts anticipate further appeals and potential challenges to the injunction as the dispute over birthright citizenship continues to unfold.

Published: 7/10/2025