In a federal court hearing, arguments are set to be presented regarding President Donald Trump’s executive order aiming to end birthright citizenship for individuals born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants. The order, currently temporarily halted nationwide due to a separate lawsuit in Washington state, has faced opposition from 22 states and various organizations on grounds of unconstitutionality. Immigrant-rights advocacy groups and expectant mothers have brought the case before U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman in Maryland.

Central to the legal battle are interpretations of the 14th Amendment of the Constitution, which guarantees citizenship to individuals born or naturalized in the U.S. and under its jurisdiction. The Trump administration contends that children of noncitizens do not fall under U.S. jurisdiction and therefore should not automatically receive citizenship. The historical context of the 14th Amendment, established post-Civil War to ensure citizenship for former slaves and free African Americans, adds complexity to the debate.

With both Democratic and Republican state attorneys general taking stances either against or in support of the executive order, the issue of birthright citizenship remains contentious. President Trump’s broader immigration agenda, marked by executive orders and promises of deportations and border security enhancements, has sparked immediate consequences and legal challenges. The outcome of these legal battles may ultimately hinge on Congressional funding decisions and potential utilization of emergency powers by the administration.