Fact Check: 22 States Challenge Trump's Citizenship Directive, Citing Financial Burdens
What We Know
On January 21, 2025, attorneys general from 22 states, along with the District of Columbia and the city of San Francisco, filed lawsuits against President Donald Trump's executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship. This order would refuse citizenship to U.S.-born children of unauthorized immigrants, a practice that has been in place for over a century and is guaranteed by the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution (AP News, Reuters). The lawsuits argue that the executive order is unconstitutional and that it would impose significant financial burdens on the states involved, as they would need to address the implications of denying citizenship to thousands of newborns each year (New York Times, VisaVerge).
Analysis
The claim that 22 states are challenging Trump's directive due to financial burdens is supported by multiple sources. The lawsuits were led by Democratic attorneys general, who articulated that the executive order would not only violate established legal precedent but also create administrative and financial challenges for the states (AP News, Reuters). For instance, Washington Attorney General Nick Brown stated that the order could deny citizenship to approximately 150,000 newborns annually, which would have profound implications for state resources and services (New York Times).
The credibility of the sources reporting on this issue is high, as they include established news organizations like the Associated Press, Reuters, and The New York Times, which are known for their rigorous journalistic standards. These outlets have provided detailed accounts of the lawsuits and the legal arguments presented by the states, indicating a well-documented basis for the claims made.
However, it is important to note that the White House has dismissed these lawsuits as politically motivated, labeling them as an extension of the opposition to Trump's policies (AP News). This perspective suggests a potential bias in the interpretation of the legal challenges, as the administration frames the issue within a broader political context.
Conclusion
The claim that 22 states are challenging Trump's citizenship directive due to financial burdens is True. The evidence presented in various credible news reports supports the assertion that these states are not only contesting the legality of the executive order but are also concerned about the significant financial implications it would have on state resources and services.
