Congressman Krishnamoorthi Denounces Proposed Constitutional Amendment Barring Naturalized Citizens From Congress, Federal Posts

U.S. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.) has denounced a proposed constitutional amendment that would prohibit naturalized citizens from serving in Congress or holding federal positions. The amendment, introduced by a group of lawmakers, seeks to restrict public office eligibility to only those who are natural-born citizens.

Krishnamoorthi, who was born in India and became a naturalized U.S. citizen, called the proposal discriminatory and un-American. He argued that it undermines the fundamental principles of the Constitution, which allows naturalized citizens to hold federal office.

The congressman emphasized that naturalized citizens contribute significantly to the nation and should not be barred from serving in government. He urged his colleagues to reject the amendment, stating that it goes against the country's values of inclusivity and equal opportunity.

The proposed amendment has drawn criticism from various civil rights organizations and lawmakers, who view it as an attack on immigrants and a violation of the 14th Amendment's equal protection clause.