Birthright Citizenship Debate: Sen. Schmitt Challenges Constitutionality

Sen. Eric Schmitt Questions Birthright Citizenship on 'The Ingraham Angle'

On January 22, 2025, Senator Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., appeared on 'The Ingraham Angle' to discuss the contentious issue of birthright citizenship in the United States. The segment, hosted by Laura Ingraham, delved into the interpretation of the 14th Amendment and its application to current immigration policies. Schmitt provided a detailed analysis of the historical context of the amendment, arguing that its original intent has been misconstrued in modern times. His appearance comes amid renewed discussions under the administration of President Donald J. Trump, who has consistently prioritized immigration reform and border security.

Schmitt emphasized that the citizenship clause of the 14th Amendment was primarily designed to address the aftermath of the Dred Scott decision, ensuring citizenship for all races born on U.S. soil. However, he asserted that it was never meant to extend automatic citizenship to children of illegal immigrants, often referred to as 'anchor babies.' This perspective aligns with efforts by the Trump administration to reevaluate policies that may incentivize illegal immigration.

Historical Intent vs. Modern Application

During the discussion, around the 2:30 mark, Schmitt pointed out that even historical figures like former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid had acknowledged the misapplication of birthright citizenship. He argued that the amendment's intent was specific to a post-Civil War context and not meant to cover the complexities of modern immigration challenges. 'The citizenship clause of the 14th Amendment was meant to address the Dred Scott case & extend citizenship to all races. It was not intended to give citizenship to “anchor babies” or illegals,' Schmitt stated in a post on X following the broadcast.

This interpretation raises significant questions about how current laws are applied. Schmitt highlighted that the ongoing border crisis, exacerbated by previous policies, necessitates a reevaluation of how citizenship is granted. His stance supports the broader agenda of tightening immigration controls, a key focus for President Trump since taking office earlier this year. The senator's comments reflect a push to align legal interpretations with what he sees as the original constitutional framework.

Policy Implications and Public Safety

At approximately the 5:00 mark of the segment, the conversation shifted toward the practical implications of birthright citizenship. Schmitt argued that the current system creates an incentive for illegal immigration, as individuals may cross the border with the expectation that their children will automatically gain U.S. citizenship. This, he suggested, places additional strain on public resources and undermines the rule of law. His remarks resonate with concerns about national security and the integrity of U.S. borders, issues that have been at the forefront of policy discussions in 2025.

The senator stressed that addressing birthright citizenship is not about denying rights but about ensuring that immigration policies serve the interests of American citizens first. This perspective is consistent with the administration’s commitment to reforming immigration laws to prioritize public safety and economic stability. Schmitt’s analysis on 'The Ingraham Angle' underscores a belief that unchecked policies can lead to unintended consequences, impacting communities across the nation.

Call for a National Conversation

Toward the end of the segment, near the 8:15 mark, Laura Ingraham and Schmitt agreed on the need for a broader national conversation about birthright citizenship. They noted that while changing the interpretation of the 14th Amendment would be a significant undertaking, it is a discussion worth having given the current border challenges. Schmitt reiterated that the United States must address these issues head-on to prevent further erosion of legal standards surrounding immigration.

The senator’s appearance on the show has sparked renewed interest in a topic that has long been debated but rarely acted upon. His call for clarity on the constitutional intent behind birthright citizenship aligns with the Trump administration’s focus on enforcing immigration laws and securing national borders. As this debate continues, it is clear that figures like Schmitt will play a pivotal role in shaping the discourse around one of the most pressing issues facing the country today.

In summary, Senator Eric Schmitt’s analysis on 'The Ingraham Angle' provided a compelling case for revisiting the concept of birthright citizenship. His arguments, rooted in historical context and current policy challenges, reflect a commitment to ensuring that U.S. laws protect and prioritize American citizens. As discussions unfold under President Trump’s leadership, this issue is likely to remain a focal point of national attention.