Trump's Controversial Scheme Sparks GOP Divisions Over Citizenship

WHO:

Alternet - President Donald Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, Justice Brett Kavanaugh, Rep. Chip Roy, Rep. Brian Babin, Sen. Lindsey Graham

USA Today - House Republicans, GOP lawmakers

WHAT:

Alternet - The Supreme Court struck down Trump's attempt to redefine birthright citizenship via executive order by a 5-4 vote.

Alternet - Trump called for Congress to make changes to birthright citizenship legislation, stating, “Congress should start TODAY.”

USA Today - Mike Johnson stated that congressional Republicans are "looking at all angles" to limit birthright citizenship.

USA Today - Johnson mentioned that if there is a legislative fix, they would advance it immediately.

USA Today - A recent Fox News poll indicated that 69 percent of Americans believe a child born to an "illegal immigrant" should automatically become a U.S. citizen.

WHERE:

USA Today - Washington, D.C.

WHEN:

USA Today - Johnson's interview on "Fox News Sunday" occurred on July 5, 2026.

USA Today - Trump's social media post regarding birthright citizenship was made on June 30, 2026.

USA Today - The Birthright Citizenship Act of 2025 was first introduced in January 2025.

WHY:

Alternet - Trump's supporters claim the Supreme Court's decision cleared the way for Congress to make changes to birthright citizenship without a constitutional amendment.

USA Today - Johnson emphasized the need to address birthright citizenship due to perceived issues with "birth tourism."

HOW:

USA Today - Johnson indicated that a constitutional amendment would take more time compared to a legislative fix.

USA Today - The Birthright Citizenship Act of 2025 would only allow citizenship to babies born on U.S. soil if their parents are citizens or lawful permanent residents.

(UPDATED July 7, 2026 21:27 UTC)

The Supreme Court has struck down President Trump's attempt to redefine birthright citizenship through an executive order, voting five to four on the matter. In response, Trump has called for Congress to take immediate action, stating that they should start today, while House Speaker Mike Johnson mentioned that congressional Republicans are exploring all options to limit birthright citizenship and would advance any legislative fixes right away. A recent Fox News poll shows that 69 percent of Americans believe a child born to an illegal immigrant should automatically become a U.S. citizen, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding this issue.