President Donald Trump sent shockwaves through Washington with a stark claim: he can yank away US citizenship in ‘one moment’ if he deems someone disloyal or dangerous. Revealed in a New York Times interview from last week—transcript released Sunday—Trump’s words cut to the heart of America’s immigration and security debates.
The discussion zeroed in on naturalized citizens, who earn their status through rigorous legal channels despite not being US-born. They enjoy full rights, but Trump isn’t backing down. ‘Yes, I would’ strip it if warranted, he said, adding he’d act ‘right away’ without hesitation.
His team is crafting standards, prioritizing unwavering allegiance and truthfulness to the US. During the lengthy Oval Office sit-down, Trump hammered immigration, spotlighting Somali-Americans. ‘One of the worst countries in the world,’ he called Somalia, blaming its people for grave problems stateside.
Pressed on targeting Somali immigrants specifically, Trump replied, ‘If they’re dishonest, I certainly would.’ He singled out Rep. Ilhan Omar of Minnesota, a Democrat of Somali descent, demanding her expulsion from Congress and deportation. Lose her citizenship? ‘Oh, absolutely,’ he affirmed.
Fact-checks from the Times reporters highlighted missing proof for some accusations, like unverified claims about Omar’s background. Trump dismissed them outright, insisting his instincts were spot-on. Fears of stereotyping communities? He waved them off: ‘I don’t care. I want good people… who love our country.’
On legal hurdles, Trump noted judges could intervene but highlighted his mandate on borders and safety. He hinted at the Insurrection Act for deploying troops in chaos, though not needed so far. This provocative interview unfolds against a backdrop of fierce court fights over deportations, civil liberties, and presidential reach.
Revoking citizenship is exceedingly rare under US law, demanding ironclad evidence of naturalization fraud and heavy judicial oversight. Trump’s rhetoric challenges that framework, fueling a national conversation on loyalty, identity, and the price of American belonging.