Olympia, Washington, USA: Donald Trump has signed an executive order to end birthright citizenship, a long-standing policy that grants automatic U.S. citizenship to children born in the country. The policy, enshrined in the 14th Amendment, has been in place for over a century, but Trump argues it should not apply to children born to non-citizens or temporary residents.

The order, effective February 19, denies birthright citizenship to children if one parent is unlawfully present in the U.S. or on a temporary visa. It also excludes children of H-1B visa holders, affecting skilled workers primarily from India. The move has prompted backlash from 22 Democrat-led states, which argue the policy violates the Constitution. Legal challenges are ongoing as states seek to block the order in court.

Trump’s supporters argue the program has been misused, while critics, including Democratic officials, assert it is a constitutional right. This battle could have significant implications for immigrant families, particularly those from undocumented backgrounds or on temporary visas.