Seattle, January 24, 2025 — In a significant legal development, U.S. District Judge John Coughenour has issued a temporary restraining order against President Donald Trump’s recent executive action aimed at terminating birthright citizenship. The judge labelled the order as “blatantly unconstitutional,” emphasizing its conflict with the 14th Amendment, which guarantees citizenship to all individuals born on U.S. soil.
The executive order, signed on January 20, 2025, sought to deny U.S. citizenship to children born in the country to parents residing illegally. This move faced immediate legal challenges from 22 states and various immigrant rights organizations. Judge Coughenour’s ruling responds to a lawsuit filed by the states of Washington, Arizona, Illinois, and Oregon, effectively pausing the order’s implementation for 14 days pending further judicial review.
President Trump has announced plans to appeal the decision, stating, “Obviously we will appeal it.” The administration contends that the executive order is a necessary measure to address immigration concerns, while opponents argue it undermines constitutional protections and decades of legal precedent.
This legal battle underscores the ongoing national debate over immigration policy and the interpretation of constitutional rights related to citizenship. As the situation evolves, further court proceedings are anticipated to determine the executive order’s future and its alignment with the U.S. Constitution.
