Story perspectives

Lawmakers Push to Deport Terror-Linked Naturalized Citizens

3/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rep. Riley Moore (R-W.Va.) plans to introduce legislation to denaturalize and deport naturalized citizens who commit or plot terrorism.
Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) backs this with SCAM Act to simplify denaturalization for those tied to terrorism.
The push follows incidents involving naturalized citizens, including a shooting at Old Dominion University and a vehicle attack at a Michigan synagogue.
Critics argue current laws require fraud evidence in naturalization, making denaturalization difficult.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration Act of 1924, also known as the Johnson–Reed Act, established strict quotas that significantly reduced immigration, particularly from Asia and Southern and Eastern Europe, reflecting societal fears of foreign influence. This law shaped U.S. immigration policy until the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which abolished these discriminatory quotas, allowing for a more diverse influx of immigrants and altering the nation's demographic landscape.

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Story summary

Rep. Riley Moore (R-W.Va.) plans to introduce legislation to denaturalize and deport naturalized citizens who commit or plot terrorism.
Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.) backs this with SCAM Act to simplify denaturalization for those tied to terrorism.
The push follows incidents involving naturalized citizens, including a shooting at Old Dominion University and a vehicle attack at a Michigan synagogue.
Critics argue current laws require fraud evidence in naturalization, making denaturalization difficult.

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