LEWES, Del. - Birthright citizenship, a policy granting U.S. citizenship to all children born in the U.S. regardless of their parent's immigration status, is under scrutiny.
Former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis pledged to challenge this long-standing practice if elected in 2024.
For Carmela Morales, who emigrated from Guatemala in 1992 and has since had four of her five daughters in the U.S., the threat to birthright citizenship is deeply personal and troubling.
"For me, that idea is not right because it is not fair more than anything because they were born in this country, and by law, they have more than anything else, social security," Morales said.
Morales expressed concern over the profound implications of such a change on children's futures.
"Well, more than anything, their futures because here there are many opportunities for them to get ahead, study, and pursue a career," she said.
Morales also touched on the resilience and aspirations of those affected, hinting at the determination of some to move on despite potential challenges. However, she highlighted a critical barrier.
"But if they don't have citizenship, not because they cover them up and turn them off," she said.