DOJ deploys tactic to strip naturalized Americans of citizenship

The U.S. Justice Department has identified denaturalization as a top priority, employing a strategy to strip citizenship from naturalized Americans. This approach involves federal prosecutors actively seeking to revoke citizenship from individuals accused of concealing serious crimes or providing false information during their naturalization process.

Earlier this month, the department initiated proceedings to denaturalize 25 individuals. Prosecutors allege that these individuals lied about their pasts and hid significant criminal histories, which would have disqualified them from becoming U.S. citizens. This move signals a more aggressive stance by the government in enforcing immigration and citizenship laws.

Denaturalization is a complex legal process that targets individuals who have already become U.S. citizens. The Justice Department's renewed focus suggests a significant shift in law enforcement strategy, emphasizing the investigation and prosecution of cases involving alleged fraud or misrepresentation in the naturalization applications.

Ali Rogin, a correspondent for the PBS News Hour specializing in the Supreme Court and America's judicial system, is reporting on this development. Her work has previously been recognized with awards, including a Peabody Award for her series on the COVID-19 pandemic's global impact, and multiple Edward R. Murrow Awards.