Story perspectives

Judge Claims Constitution Only Protects U.S. Citizens

12/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. District Judge Amul Thapar, appointed by U.S. President Donald Trump, argues the U.S. Constitution applies only to citizens.
He says 'We the people' excludes noncitizens and that the Second, First, and Fourth Amendments do not extend to them.
He partially supports a ruling barring undocumented immigrants from firearms, though his dissent carries no legal weight.
Trump allies praise the views; critics warn the stance threatens noncitizens' rights.

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Story summary

U.S. District Judge Amul Thapar, appointed by U.S. President Donald Trump, argues the U.S. Constitution applies only to citizens.
He says 'We the people' excludes noncitizens and that the Second, First, and Fourth Amendments do not extend to them.
He partially supports a ruling barring undocumented immigrants from firearms, though his dissent carries no legal weight.
Trump allies praise the views; critics warn the stance threatens noncitizens' rights.