WASHINGTON: A federal judge in Seattle has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship. Judge John Coughenour called the policy “blatantly unconstitutional” and ruled against its immediate enforcement.
Court Grants Emergency Request from States
The order came after Washington Attorney General Nick Brown, alongside three other Democratic-led states, filed for an emergency restraining order. Judge Coughenour ruled to pause the implementation of the executive order for 14 days. This pause allows further legal proceedings and briefings on the case.
Judge’s Strong Criticism of Executive Action
Coughenour, appointed by President Ronald Reagan, sharply criticized the constitutional grounds for Trump’s executive order. “I can’t remember another case where the issue was this clear,” the judge remarked during the ruling.
Questions Over Legal Counsel’s Role
The judge expressed disbelief that legal experts involved in drafting the executive order believed it to be constitutional. “Where were the lawyers?” Coughenour questioned, emphasizing his confusion over their legal stance.
Legal Challenge Continues Across States
While the emergency ruling prevents immediate enforcement, the legal challenge will continue. The temporary injunction allows for more legal briefings, with further arguments expected in the coming weeks.
Birthright Citizenship Under Threat
Trump’s executive order sought to end birthright citizenship, a practice that automatically grants U.S. citizenship to children born on American soil. The move had sparked significant debate over its legality, with critics arguing that it violated the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
Constitutional Concerns Raised Nationwide
The attempt to curtail birthright citizenship was met with opposition from numerous lawmakers and legal experts. Many believed that such a drastic policy would require a constitutional amendment, rather than an executive order.
