Jose Andrés Protests at Supreme Court During Trump’s Historic Visit
On Wednesday, activist and celebrity chef Jose Andrés stood outside the U.S. Supreme Court as President Donald Trump made history by being the first sitting president to attend oral arguments there.
In an interview, Andrés criticized Trump for “changing the rules of the game” during a significant year, marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. He expressed concern over Trump’s efforts to prevent children of undocumented or temporarily present parents from obtaining U.S. citizenship, suggesting it’s not an issue the country should focus on.
Andrés’ sentiments resonated with other demonstrators, who voiced their opposition to Trump’s tightening of birthright citizenship. Even actor Robert De Niro was present, though he joined Trump and his aides inside the courtroom.
Debate on the Constitutionality of Citizenship Changes
“This country is celebrating its 250th anniversary! Now is not the time to change the rules,” Andrés stated emphatically. He argued for supporting the 15 million immigrants in America, reinforcing the ideals of the nation.
Others protesting echoed this belief, asserting that the proposed changes to citizenship violate the Constitution. One demonstrator, holding a small dog with a sign that read “No King, Only BI-ES,” remarked on the necessity of maintaining consistency within the Constitution as society changes.
Another protester pointed to the creation of a “two-tiered citizenship system” and questioned why some individuals born in the U.S. would be denied citizenship based on their parents’ ancestry, arguing that this undermines the foundational principle of equality.
Some activists emphasized the significance of the 14th Amendment, stating, “You can’t rewrite the Constitution.” They expressed a desire for knowledgeable public discussions on such pivotal issues.
After the proceedings, De Niro shared his mixed feelings, saying he didn’t quite know how to process the arguments he had just listened to, describing them as complicated. He criticized Trump’s stance, viewing it as a method to dismiss those he deems undesirable.
In response to claims he suffers from “Trump Derangement Syndrome,” De Niro dismissed the notion as “nonsense.” He expressed his belief that people’s dislike for Trump stems from his actions, stating, “If he had done good things, people would love him.” His frustration was palpable, emphasizing that he found nothing redeeming about Trump.
Reports indicated that the Supreme Court appears poised to reject Trump’s claims regarding birthright citizenship, with the oral argument extending over two hours, attended by Trump and several allies.
