The U.S. House Committee on the Judiciary convened on February 26, 2025, to discuss the implications of birthright citizenship as outlined in the Fourteenth Amendment. A significant focus of the meeting was the interpretation of the citizenship clause, which has faced scrutiny and debate in recent years.

During the session, committee members highlighted that an executive order interpreting the citizenship clause has been widely rejected by the Supreme Court and has never been endorsed by any federal court. This point was underscored by references to Judge Sorokin, who noted that the Fourteenth Amendment does not consider the citizenship status of a child's parents at the time of birth. The committee emphasized that no federal judge has upheld the executive order against legal challenges, suggesting a strong consensus among the judiciary regarding the clarity of the amendment's language.

The discussion also included historical context, with committee members referencing the contributions of key figures in the drafting of the Fourteenth Amendment. Notably, John Bingham, often regarded as the primary author of the citizenship clause, was highlighted for his commitment to ensuring that the clause was universally understood. Senator Benjamin Wade's insistence on the clarity of the citizenship clause was also mentioned, as he sought to prevent any misinterpretation that could arise during politically charged times.

The committee's discussions reflect a broader concern about the interpretation of constitutional provisions and the potential for differing views to influence legal outcomes. The meeting concluded with a recognition of the importance of maintaining the original intent of the Fourteenth Amendment to uphold the principle of birthright citizenship in the United States.