Fact Check: "Trump's DOJ targets naturalized citizens for denaturalization over crimes."
What We Know
The claim that the Trump administration's Department of Justice (DOJ) is targeting naturalized citizens for denaturalization due to criminal activity is supported by recent developments. In June 2025, the DOJ announced a directive prioritizing denaturalization cases against naturalized citizens who commit certain crimes, particularly those involving national security and fraud (NPR). This directive allows for broader prosecutorial discretion in pursuing denaturalization, which is a process that can strip individuals of their citizenship if it is determined that their naturalization was obtained through illegal means or misrepresentation (VisaVerge).
The DOJ's newly established Denaturalization Section is dedicated to investigating and litigating cases of denaturalization, particularly focusing on individuals who have committed serious offenses such as terrorism, war crimes, and sex offenses (DOJ). The DOJ has noted that denaturalization cases have no statute of limitations, allowing for ongoing scrutiny of naturalized citizens (DOJ).
Analysis
The evidence indicates that the DOJ's actions under the Trump administration are indeed targeting naturalized citizens for denaturalization based on criminal conduct. The June memo from the DOJ explicitly states that denaturalization will be a top enforcement priority, particularly for those who may have lied about their criminal history or affiliations during the naturalization process (NPR). This approach has historical parallels, as denaturalization was heavily utilized during the McCarthy era and has seen a resurgence in recent years (NPR).
Critics of this policy, including legal experts, have raised concerns about its constitutionality and the potential infringement on due process rights. They argue that civil denaturalization proceedings, which do not guarantee legal representation, could lead to unjust outcomes for individuals facing these actions (NPR). The DOJ's directive has been characterized as expanding the scope of denaturalization, which raises fairness concerns for millions of naturalized citizens (VisaVerge).
The sources cited in this analysis are credible, with the DOJ being a primary source of information regarding its own policies. NPR and VisaVerge provide journalistic coverage of these developments, although NPR is noted for its balanced reporting, while VisaVerge may have a more specialized focus on immigration issues.
Conclusion
The claim that the Trump administration's DOJ is targeting naturalized citizens for denaturalization due to crimes is True. The establishment of a dedicated Denaturalization Section and the prioritization of denaturalization cases against naturalized citizens who commit certain crimes substantiate this claim. The DOJ's actions reflect a significant shift in immigration enforcement policy, aiming to hold accountable those who may have obtained citizenship through fraudulent means or who have committed serious offenses.
Sources
- The Department of Justice Creates Section Dedicated to ...
- DOJ announces plans to prioritize cases to revoke citizenship
- Trump DOJ Directive Allows Stripping Citizenship for Criminal Offenses
- DOJ announces plans to prioritize cases to revoke citizenship
- Trump's justice department issues directive to strip ...
