10/08/2026
She says it's about loyalty. Critics say it's about targeting immigrants. Same bill, opposite readings.
In May 2026, Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) introduced a constitutional amendment to require members of Congress, federal judges and Senate-confirmed officers to be natural-born citizens — extending a rule that now covers only the president and vice president. Mace argued those with federal power should be loyal to "America, not any other country," and singled out foreign-born Democrats, including Ilhan Omar.
It would bar naturalized citizens — including several sitting Republicans — but apply only to future officeholders, sparing current members. Critics called it racist and xenophobic; a scholar called it "regressive" nativism. With no cosponsors and steep odds, it's seen as largely symbolic.