In a historic moment on Wednesday, President Donald Trump became the first sitting president to attend an oral argument at the US Supreme Court.
He joined a packed courtroom as the justices began hearing Trump vs Barbara, a case that could redefine American citizenship.
The legal battle centers on an executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship for children born in the US to parents who are in the country illegally or on temporary visas.
Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the court highlighting the high stakes.
ACLU Executive Director Anthony D. Romero noted that while the president’s presence was unprecedented, “the Supreme Court is up to the task of interpreting and defending the Constitution even under the glare of a sitting president.”
Before the hearing, President Trump told reporters, “I’m going to think so, I do believe,” confirming his intent to witness the proceedings.
Inside, the administration argued that the 14th Amendment does not cover everyone born on US soil. However, opponents argue this violates over a century of legal precedent.
A final decision is expected by early summer potentially affecting the status of hundreds of thousands of future residents.
