Trump Drops Bombshell on NBC: Birthright Citizenship to End, Dreamers to Get a New Pathway (Videos)

In a recent Meet the Press interview with NBC’s Kristen Welker, President-elect Donald Trump took a firm stance on immigration reform, emphasizing his plans to address systemic issues in the U.S. immigration system. From ending birthright citizenship to tackling the complexities of the Dreamer population, Trump outlined a bold vision that aligns with his America First approach.
Ending Birthright Citizenship

Trump wasted no time reaffirming his intent to end birthright citizenship, a policy he called “ridiculous.” Despite Welker’s attempt to corner him with a misleading interpretation of the 14th Amendment, Trump clarified his position, stating that the phrase “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” does not grant automatic citizenship to children born to illegal immigrants.

“We’re the only country that does this,” Trump explained, highlighting how the policy creates an incentive for illegal immigration. Anchor babies, as they’re commonly referred to, enable entire families to remain in the U.S. through “family reunification” policies. Trump asserted that ending this practice is vital to eliminating the magnet that draws illegal immigrants to the country.

Video:

President Trump says it’s still his plan to END birthright citizenship: “We’re the only country that has it!” pic.twitter.com/iOdkKQ2gnZ

— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) December 8, 2024

The path to ending birthright citizenship, however, will likely involve significant legal battles. While Trump suggested he might attempt an executive action, he acknowledged that a legislative or judicial solution could provide the permanence necessary to secure this reform.
Tackling the Dreamer Dilemma

When questioned about the so-called Dreamers—individuals brought to the U.S. illegally as children—Trump struck a more nuanced tone. While reiterating his commitment to enforcing immigration laws, he expressed a willingness to work with Democrats to find a compassionate solution.

“Many of these are middle-aged people now… they’ve become successful,” Trump noted, acknowledging the unique circumstances of Dreamers who have spent their entire lives in the U.S. He criticized the Democrats for failing to act when they had control of Congress, suggesting they prefer to keep the issue alive for political gain.

Video:

TRUMP on “DREAMers”: “The DREAMers are going to come later, and we have to do something about the DREAMers. Because these are people that have been brought here at a very young age and many of these are middle-aged people now. They don’t even speak the language of their country.” pic.twitter.com/tPwtspPy7H

— Jorge Bonilla (@BonillaJL) December 8, 2024

Trump faces a delicate balancing act: addressing the legal vulnerabilities of DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) while ensuring any solution does not undermine broader immigration enforcement. Given recent court rulings deeming DACA illegal, Trump has significant leverage but will need bipartisan cooperation to craft a lasting resolution.
Reforming the Incentives

Trump also highlighted the need to address the root causes of illegal immigration. Beyond physical border security, he emphasized removing the incentives that attract millions to cross the border illegally. Birthright citizenship and programs like DACA, he argued, create an expectation of leniency that undermines the rule of law.

By ending these practices, Trump seeks to establish a system where merit and legal immigration are prioritized over exploitation of loopholes.
Opinion Disclaimer

This article reflects the opinions of its author, based on interpretations of President-elect Donald Trump’s remarks and the current state of U.S. immigration policy.