President Donald Trump is once again igniting debate over immigration enforcement after saying he would support revoking U.S. citizenship from individuals who obtained it fraudulently—saying he would do so “in a heartbeat” if the law allows.
The remarks came during a lengthy interview with The New York Times, where Trump stressed that American citizenship must be protected and that dishonesty during the naturalization process should carry serious consequences.
“If they were dishonest, I would do it in a heartbeat,” Trump said. “If they deserve to be stripped, yes.”
What Trump Is Actually Proposing
Despite dramatic headlines, Trump did not call for mass revocation of citizenship. Instead, he reiterated a long-standing legal principle: U.S. citizenship can be revoked only in cases involving fraud or serious misrepresentation during the application process.
Trump initially referenced Somali-American communities while discussing fraud investigations in Minnesota, but emphasized that any enforcement would apply equally to any individual, regardless of background.
Immigration Enforcement Under Trump
Immigration has remained a central focus of Trump’s agenda. His administration has expanded enforcement actions involving:
- Revocation of temporary legal protections
- Increased activity by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
- Oversight by the Department of Homeland Security
Revoking citizenship, however, remains rare and legally complex.
Minnesota Fraud Investigations Fuel Renewed Focus
The discussion gained momentum following investigations in Minnesota involving alleged immigration and benefits fraud. Democratic Governor Tim Walz has acknowledged the need for more federal resources to address abuse.
Many Somali-Americans in the state have lived there for decades and are naturalized U.S. citizens, which places any potential denaturalization efforts under strict legal scrutiny.
What the Law Allows
Federal law permits denaturalization only if the government proves an individual:
- Lied during the naturalization process
- Concealed serious criminal activity
- Obtained citizenship through fraud
In December, internal guidance reported by The New York Times showed U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services was asked to identify more potential fraud cases for Justice Department review—significantly more than in previous years.
Legal Experts Weigh In
Policy analysts warn that large-scale denaturalization would be expensive, time-consuming, and likely challenged in court.
The libertarian Cato Institute has noted that citizenship cannot be revoked unilaterally and requires court approval supported by clear evidence.
Homeland Security officials maintain the law is clear. In a statement to Fox News, Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said citizenship obtained through fraud is legally subject to revocation.
Where Things Stand Now
Despite heightened rhetoric and internal reviews, there has been no widespread wave of citizenship revocations. Any denaturalization cases would still require lengthy legal proceedings and judicial approval.
For supporters, the issue underscores Trump’s commitment to enforcing immigration law and protecting the value of American citizenship. For critics, it raises questions about scope and execution.
For now, the debate remains a political flashpoint—but the legal barriers ensure that any action would move slowly and cautiously.