Vivek Ramaswamy : In a startling revelation during the second GOP debate, Vivek Ramaswamy, a 2024 Presidential elections candidate, stirred the political pot by boldly advocating for an end to the “US citizenship at birth” rule for children born to “illegal immigrants.” Citing the 14th Amendment, Ramaswamy’s stance has generated waves of controversy and debate, both online and offline.
“I favor ending birthright citizenship for the kids of illegal immigrants in this country,” Ramaswamy declared during the debate, a statement that immediately ignited a firestorm of opinions across social media platforms. “Now, the left will howl about the Constitution and the 14th Amendment. The difference between me and them is I’ve actually read the 14th Amendment,” he added, emphasizing his commitment to constitutional knowledge.
Ramaswamy’s argument revolves around a nuanced interpretation of the 14th Amendment, specifically Section 1, which states, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and the State wherein they reside.” However, Vivek Ramaswamy highlights a crucial exception that often goes unnoticed: children born to diplomats and recognized government officials from foreign countries do not obtain US citizenship, even if they are born within American borders.
Vivek Ramaswamy Comment
During the debate, Vivek Ramaswamy pointed out an example that illustrated his point. “What it says is that all persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the laws and jurisdiction thereof are citizens. So nobody believes that the kid of a Mexican diplomat in this country enjoys birthright citizenship,” Vivek Ramaswamy argued.
To understand the context better, let’s delve into the US laws governing “citizenship at birth.” According to the official US government website for “US Citizenship and Immigration Services,” a person born in the United States who is subject to the jurisdiction of the United States is a U.S. citizen at birth. This includes children born to members of various indigenous tribes, such as Indian, Eskimo, Aleutian, or other aboriginal groups.
The controversial aspect of “US citizenship at birth” is its applicability through the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, a legal cornerstone often debated in the context of immigration and nationality. The 14th Amendment, while granting citizenship to most individuals born on American soil, makes a clear exception for children of foreign diplomats and officials.
The second GOP debate, held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California, featured seven candidates for the 2024 Presidential elections. Among them were North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, former Vice President Mike Pence, businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, and Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina.
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