Commissioner Bastien releases statement on the U.S. Supreme Court ruling on birthright citizenship

MIAMI-DADE – Commissioner Marleine Bastien releases the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on birthright citizenship: “Today’s Supreme Court ruling to end birthright citizenship in certain states is a direct assault on the core principles of our democracy. As a lifelong advocate for immigrant rights and constitutional justice, I cannot and will not remain silent as the foundational promises of our nation are disregarded in service of a political agenda.

“This decision not only threatens the rights of children born on U.S. soil, but it also sets a dangerous precedent by significantly expanding executive authority while undermining the checks and balances that safeguard our democracy. By shifting power away from the courts and placing it in the hands of the executive branch, this ruling erodes the separation of powers and paves the way for instability and overreach.

“The consequences of this ruling will be far-reaching, sowing confusion, division, and legal uncertainty across the country. We must remain vigilant and committed to protecting the constitutional rights of all people and upholding the democratic values that make this nation strong.”