In a robust display of unity against a controversial executive order, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, joined by a coalition of her peers from across the nation, has taken a stand at the U.S. Supreme Court. Their collective voice rang clear following oral arguments regarding an attempted presidential revocation of birthright citizenship—an idea they deem blatantly unconstitutional. According to a statement by the Michigan Department of Attorney General, "For 127 years, since the Supreme Court settled the issue, the law has been clear: if you are born in this country, you are a citizen of the United States and of our States."
This contentious issue traces its roots back to the heart of the 14th Amendment's definition of citizenship. The President's executive order seeks to alter this established understanding, an action the attorneys general criticize as a direct challenge to the Supreme Law of the land. The Michigan Department of Attorney General's statement asserts, "As every court to have considered the policy agrees, the President’s attempt to end birthright citizenship is patently unconstitutional." The argument laid out before the Supreme Court suggested that presidential power should enable the revocation of citizenship based on birth location—provoking adamant disagreement from the multisectoral legal assembly.
The group of attorneys general, spanning the political spectrum and representing a wide range of states, are resolute in their defense of birthright citizenship as a cornerstone of constitutional law and societal stability. The joint declaration emphasizes the potential "widespread chaos and disruption" that could arise if the President were allowed to unilaterally override established jurisprudence. This legal battle has gathered the attention of jurists, politicians, and citizens alike, as it questions the very nature of American citizenship and the strength of long-standing constitutional protections, as per the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
Among the 19 attorneys general standing with Nessel are representatives from Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, and many more, marking a significant moment of cross-jurisdictional solidarity. They highlight the historic bipartisan respect for birthright citizenship and express their commitment to uphold the principles ensconced within the Constitution. In conclusion to they're statement, the attorneys general say, "The President cannot rewrite the Constitution and contradict the Supreme Court’s own holdings with the stroke of a pen." This high-profile case continues to unfold as the nation watches, awaiting the Supreme Court's decision that could have far-reaching implications on the country's understanding of citizenship and executive authority, as detailed by the Michigan Department of Attorney General.
