🔒 The Constitution Protects “Persons,” Not Just “Citizens”
Categories :
Understanding the Constitution & Illegal Immigration
Many Americans wonder how undocumented immigrants can claim constitutional rights. The truth is, the U.S. Constitution protects more than just citizens — and that’s where the confusion begins.
🔍 Who Is Protected Under the Constitution?
Most core rights use the word “person” — not “citizen.” That means anyone on U.S. soil, even illegally, has some legal protections. These include:
- Due Process (5th & 14th Amendments) – Cannot be detained or punished without legal procedure
- Equal Protection (14th Amendment) – Cannot be singled out arbitrarily by state laws
- Basic Human Rights – Freedom from cruel treatment by government actors
⛔ What Illegal Immigrants Don’t Automatically Get
- No right to vote
- No access to gun ownership or federal aid
- No automatic right to stay in the U.S.
- No protection from deportation unless eligible for asylum or similar relief
⚖️ Court Cases That Set the Precedent
- Plyler v. Doe (1982) – States can’t deny undocumented kids a public education
- Zadvydas v. Davis (2001) – Government can’t detain illegal immigrants indefinitely
“You can be here illegally… and still demand your rights when the government acts unjustly.”
📢 JSA2026 Campaign Position
Jason S. Arnold says:
“I believe in the Constitution — but it’s being weaponized to protect lawbreakers over law-abiding citizens. We need a system that distinguishes between due process and undue privilege. I’ll fight to fix that imbalance in New York and across this country.”
Discover more from JSA NYS Gov. 2026
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