Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to require that any Representative or Senator be a natural born citizen.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Perry, Scott [R-PA-10]
- Committees
- Judiciary Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 23, 2026
Bottom line
This resolution seeks to amend the U.S. Constitution to restrict eligibility for serving in Congress to only natural born citizens, with a transitional period for current officeholders.
What it actually does
This joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to require that all members of the House of Representatives and the Senate be natural born citizens of the United States. It includes a grandfather clause allowing any current non-natural born Representative or Senator to complete their current term, but they would be ineligible for re-election or future service after that term concludes.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that requiring natural born citizenship for all federal elected officials, including members of Congress, strengthens national security and ensures undivided loyalty to the United States. They contend it aligns with the existing natural born citizen requirement for the presidency and vice presidency, promoting a consistent standard for those holding high office.
Opponents contend
Opponents would likely argue that this amendment is unnecessary and discriminatory, potentially disenfranchising naturalized citizens who have contributed significantly to the nation and are fully loyal. They might assert that it narrows the pool of eligible candidates without clear benefit and could be seen as an attack on the rights and contributions of naturalized citizens.
The bill text is exceptionally short and clear, making it very accessible for any reader to understand its direct implications.
Article--, Section 1
Natural Born Citizen Requirement for Representatives
This section mandates that only individuals who are natural born citizens of the United States are eligible to serve as a Representative in the U.S. House of Representatives. This would change the current constitutional requirement which only specifies a minimum age, citizenship for seven years, and residency in the state they represent. The amendment would introduce a new, more stringent eligibility criterion based on birthright.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue this ensures Representatives have an unquestionable allegiance to the United States from birth, aligning with the presidency's requirements and enhancing national security by preventing foreign influence or divided loyalties.
Critics contend
Opponents would argue this provision is discriminatory against naturalized citizens, who are often deeply committed to the U.S. and have valuable perspectives. They contend it restricts democratic choice and is unnecessary given existing loyalty oaths and background checks.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the perceived need for absolute loyalty from birth against the principle of equal opportunity for all citizens to serve in government, regardless of their place of birth.
Article--, Section 2
Natural Born Citizen Requirement for Senators
This section establishes that only individuals who are natural born citizens of the United States are eligible to serve as a Senator. This alters the current constitutional requirement which specifies a minimum age, citizenship for nine years, and residency in the state they represent. By adding this requirement, the amendment would apply the same birthright standard to both chambers of Congress.
Article--, Section 3
Grandfather Clause for Current Members
This section provides a transitional rule, allowing any individual who is currently serving as a Representative or Senator at the time of the amendment's ratification, but is not a natural born citizen, to complete their current term. However, upon the completion of that term, they would become ineligible to serve as a Representative or Senator in the future. This ensures a phased implementation rather than immediate removal.