The quote suggests that children born within the United States to foreign citizens who are not legal permanent residents should not automatically gain U.S. citizenship at birth. This would exclude from automatic citizenship those whose parents are business travelers, students on visas, tourists, or individuals residing illegally in the country.
At its core, this statement reflects broader debates about national identity and immigration policy. It questions whether being born within a nation's borders is sufficient for granting citizenship—a principle known as jus soli—or if additional criteria, such as one’s parents' legal status, should play a role. The quote also highlights concerns over the perceived strain that undocumented immigrants might place on social services and resources. By advocating for restrictions to birthright citizenship, Tancredo is addressing issues related to national security, economic stability, and cultural integration.
Tom Tancredo, the speaker of this quote, is an American politician who has been active in conservative politics. He served as a U.S. Representative from Colorado and later ran for the presidency under the Constitution Party. Tancredo is known for his strong stance on immigration reform and national security issues, often advocating for stricter border control measures and changes to citizenship laws.
