Trump Administration Accelerates Efforts to Revoke Citizenship of Certain Naturalized Americans

New Monthly Targets for Denaturalization Cases in 2026

The Trump administration has announced an aggressive plan to increase the number of denaturalization cases, aiming to revoke U.S. citizenship from select foreign-born individuals. According to internal directives issued in December 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is tasked with forwarding between 100 and 200 denaturalization cases each month to the Office of Immigration Litigation throughout 2026.

Implementation and Nationwide Review of Naturalization Records

USCIS officials have begun executing this strategy by dispatching experts to field offices across the country. Staff members are being reassigned to meticulously examine previous naturalization applications to identify candidates for potential citizenship revocation. This marks a significant operational shift, as the agency intensifies scrutiny of past cases to uphold immigration integrity.

Denaturalization: A Historically Rare Measure

Despite the new targets, revoking citizenship remains an uncommon legal action. Research from the Brennan Center for Justice reveals that from 1990 to 2017, the United States averaged only about 11 denaturalization cases annually. U.S. law restricts citizenship revocation to specific scenarios, primarily when citizenship was obtained through fraudulent means or significant misrepresentation during the naturalization process.

Focus on Fraud and National Security Concerns

Matthew Tragesser, USCIS spokesperson, emphasized the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on fraud within the naturalization system. “We are committed to pursuing denaturalization against any individual who has lied or misrepresented themselves during the citizenship process,” he stated. This initiative is part of a broader campaign described by officials as a “war on fraud,” aiming to protect the integrity of America’s immigration framework.

Additionally, a June 2025 memorandum from the Department of Justice, endorsed by President Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi, directs prioritization of denaturalization proceedings in all legally supported cases. The focus extends to individuals suspected of posing national security risks or those who acquired citizenship through material falsehoods.

Current Naturalized Population and Recent Trends

As of 2024, approximately 26 million naturalized citizens reside in the United States. Over the last decade, USCIS reports having granted citizenship to more than 7.9 million immigrants, reflecting ongoing immigration trends and the country’s evolving demographic landscape.

Concerns from Legal Experts and Advocacy Groups

While the administration’s efforts aim to safeguard citizenship standards, immigration lawyers and advocacy organizations warn that the expanded denaturalization guidelines could lead to a substantial increase in cases. Critics argue this may inadvertently affect a broader segment of naturalized citizens than historically seen, raising questions about due process and the potential for unjust revocations.

Looking Ahead: Balancing Security and Rights

The heightened denaturalization campaign underscores the administration’s commitment to combating immigration fraud and protecting national security. However, it also highlights the delicate balance between enforcing immigration laws and preserving the rights of naturalized Americans. As these policies unfold, ongoing monitoring and legal scrutiny will be essential to ensure fairness and transparency in citizenship revocation proceedings.