Proposal to Restrict Foreign-Born Citizens from Government Positions

On Wednesday, Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) introduced legislation aimed at preventing foreign-born U.S. citizens from holding positions in Congress or other federal roles.

In a joint effort with Reps. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), Shri Sanedar (D-Ill.), and Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), the South Carolina House of Representatives proposed a constitutional amendment. This would prohibit naturalized U.S. citizens from becoming federal judges, securing Senate-confirmed roles, or serving in the House or Senate.

Mace stated, “All of them were foreign-born and not citizens by birth. All of them serve in the United States Congress. They make it clear every day that their allegiance is not to the United States,” referring to the three Democratic members.

She claimed the amendment was “long overdue,” arguing it would hold lawmakers and officials to the same standards as the president and vice president.

“Those who create laws for America, confirm judges, and represent us internationally must have one loyalty: America, not any other country,” she emphasized.

Mace expressed frustration over allowing foreign-born individuals to hold office, suggesting it shows a lack of priority for American interests. “This constitutional amendment will put an end to this,” she proclaimed.

Currently, 26 members of the House were born outside the U.S., comprising 19 Democrats and 7 Republicans. In the Senate, 6 senators — four Democrats and two Republicans — are also foreign-born.

Mace and Omar often have heated exchanges on social media. Sanedar criticized Mace, alleging her actions stem from a “drinking problem.” His rebuttal contained a humorous suggestion regarding how contributions by staff should be recognized.

Mace’s proposal faces significant hurdles to become law, needing a two-thirds majority in both Congressional chambers and ratification by three-quarters of state legislatures.

Jayapal, a naturalized U.S. citizen, called Mace’s bill “narrow-minded” and “xenophobic.” She argued that instead of addressing pressing issues like economic struggles, Mace was pushing a bill that contradicted America’s immigrant history. “With the exception of Native Americans, every person in this country, including Nancy Mace, is a descendant of immigrants,” Jayapal remarked, emphasizing the strength that diversity brings to the nation.

She urged her colleagues, including those who are naturalized citizens, to denounce the amendment.

Thanedar, also an immigrant from India, poked fun at Mace’s announcement, critiquing her and making a tongue-in-cheek proposal about staff voting practices.

Omar, who became a naturalized citizen in 2000, did not provide a comment on the issue when approached.