Jack Kemp

All children born within the United States (except children of foreign diplomats) are considered citizens, regardless of the status of their parents. Some people have objected to granting birthright citizenship to children of illegal immigrants, and have proposed federal legislation to change this practice. In the following viewpoint, Jack Kemp argues that such restrictions on citizenship are not the right way for the United States to respond to the problem of illegal immigration. Ending birthright citizenship would violate the U.S. Constitution and would do little to deter illegal immigration, he contends. Kemp, a former member of Congress and the Republican nominee for vice president in 1996, directs Empower America, a public policy and advocacy organization that he cofounded.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What benefits do immigrants bring to...