Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) has introduced a joint resolution aimed at amending the U.S. Constitution to restrict eligibility for Congressional seats and federal judicial appointments solely to natural-born citizens. The proposal would explicitly bar naturalized citizens from serving in these positions, intensifying the debate over the qualifications for federal leadership roles.
Proposed Constitutional Amendment
Mace's resolution seeks to alter Article I and Article III of the Constitution, which currently outline eligibility requirements for Congress and federal judges, respectively. The proposal builds on existing restrictions for the presidency, which already requires natural-born citizenship. Critics argue the move could undermine the contributions of naturalized citizens, while proponents frame it as a safeguard for national sovereignty.
'Only those born on U.S. soil should hold the highest offices of trust in our government,' Mace stated in a press release. 'This amendment ensures that those who shape our laws and interpret them have an unbroken allegiance to this nation.'
Political Context
The resolution follows Mace's repeated criticism of Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), a naturalized citizen born in Somalia. Mace has accused Omar of promoting policies that 'do not align with American interests.' While the proposal faces an uphill battle in Congress, it reflects ongoing tensions over immigration and national identity in U.S. politics.
The amendment would require approval by two-thirds of Congress and ratification by three-quarters of the states, making its passage unlikely in the near term.