Trump confirms he would 'definitely' strip citizenship from naturalized criminals — if he has the power

President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that his administration's suspension of asylum processing following the recent National Guard shooting could extend for an indefinite period. He also mentioned the potential of revoking citizenship from certain naturalized immigrants with criminal records. While the administration has described the freeze as an emergency measure in response to Wednesday's shooting, Trumps remarks aboard Air Force One indicate it might become a more permanent policy.

The president linked the halt to a stricter approach toward 19 countries he labeled as "crime-ridden," emphasizing that he would "absolutely" consider de-naturalizing immigrants convicted of crimes, if allowed under his presidential powers. "We have enough problems. We dont want those people," Trump said, noting that no expiration date has been set for the asylum moratorium.

Presidential Authority and Immigration Enforcement

Trump highlighted federal law that could permit a president to suspend immigration, stating, "We have criminals that came into our country and they were naturalized. If I have the power to do it Im not sure that I do, but if I do I would de-naturalize. Absolutely."

He also clarified his use of the term "reverse migration," explaining it as the removal of individuals already residing in the United States. "Get people out that are in our country get them out of here," Trump said.

National Guard Shooting in Washington, D.C.

The shooting incident involved 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who has been charged with shooting two West Virginia National Guard members near the White House on Wednesday. The victims, 20-year-old Sarah Beckstrom and 24-year-old Andrew Wolfe, were deployed to D.C. as part of the federalized crime-fighting mission.

Beckstrom passed away on Thursday, while Wolfe remains in critical condition. Trump stated he invited both families to the White House to honor the fallen soldier and support the injured one. "I said, 'When you're ready, because that's a tough thing, come to the White House. We're going to honor Sarah,'" Trump said. "And likewise with Andrew, recover or not."

Lakanwal faces charges including one count of first-degree murder and two counts of assault with intent to kill while armed. These charges prompted the administration to pause all asylum decisions and temporarily stop issuing visas to travelers holding Afghan passports.

Author: Sophia Brooks