History Revisited: Stephen Miller and the Quest to Redefine Birthright Rights

The American flag
US American flag waving in the wind with a blue sky in background

Stephen Miller challenges the prevailing interpretation of birthright citizenship by advocating for a stricter application of the 14th Amendment, asserting it was never meant to extend citizenship to everyone born on U.S. soil.

Key Takeaways

  • Stephen Miller supports a reinterpretation of birthright citizenship based on the 14th Amendment’s original purpose.
  • The U.S. Supreme Court is set to deliberate on the executive order limiting birthright citizenship.
  • Miller emphasizes financial and national security concerns with current birthright citizenship policies.
  • Miller argues that “birthright citizenship” encourages illegal immigration and misuse of resources.

Miller’s Mission to Amend Interpretation

Stephen Miller, a long-standing advisor to President Trump, fervently supports a reinterpretation of birthright citizenship. Miller advocates for the 14th Amendment to reflect its original intent of protecting the rights of freed slaves rather than granting automatic citizenship to anyone born on U.S. soil, particularly the children of undocumented individuals. The debate gains attention with an impending Supreme Court hearing on President Trump’s executive order impacting birthright citizenship.

Miller underscores the financial stress and national security threats he associates with the current interpretation of birthright citizenship. He perceives the system as a burden, susceptible to exploitation, and a misalignment with the original constitutional framework.

Historical Context and Legal Challenges

The 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, originally aimed to secure citizenship for freed slaves. In the 1898 case, United States v. Wong Kim Ark, the Supreme Court extended this right to children of non-citizen parents. The upcoming court case will question the alignment of Trump’s executive order with this precedent. Trump’s administration contends that children of illegal immigrants or temporary residents fall outside the Amendment’s purview.

Democratic state attorneys general and immigration advocates argue this reinterpretation contravenes the Constitution. New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin emphasizes the constitutional safeguard of birthright citizenship.

Miller’s Influence and Rhetoric

Miller remains a pivotal figure in shaping conservative policy and rhetoric. Despite controversies, he maintains his influence, effectively channeling Trump’s message and vocalizing concerns over immigration enforcement. His involvement since Trump’s first campaign underscores his role in shaping key immigration and national security policies.

“Birthright citizenship” is the biggest, costliest scam in financial history. An illegal alien can come here nine months pregnant or on a tourist visa —nine months pregnant — have a baby, that baby is then declared an automatic citizen, which then entitles the entire family to come here and live here and every one of them get welfare. Yes, they can get unlimited welfare, applying as the custodian of this citizen — so called — child — the biggest financial rip-off of Americans in history, not to mention the fact that it’s the number one magnet for illegal immigration and invasion,” Miller explains.

Miller’s commitment to conservative policies continues to position him as an instrumental player in reshaping U.S. immigration policies, particularly with the emphasis on curtailing what he views as the excesses of birthright citizenship.