Randy Fine has introduced legislation that would prohibit members of Congress from holding dual citizenship, arguing that federal lawmakers should owe allegiance exclusively to the United States.
The Florida Republican announced the proposal, called the “Disqualifying Dual Loyalty Act,” during an interview on Newsmax, saying elected officials should not simultaneously maintain citizenship in another country while serving in Congress.
“The bottom line is that you can’t serve two masters,” Fine said. “If you’re going to serve in the United States Congress, you should serve America ONLY.”
National Security Concerns
Supporters of the legislation argue that dual citizenship could create conflicts of interest, particularly for lawmakers with access to classified intelligence and sensitive national security information.
Andy Harris, a Republican from Maryland backing the proposal, said lawmakers with ties to foreign nations could raise concerns about divided loyalties.
“It’s not just about the vote,” Harris said. “It’s about access to our national security secrets.”
Harris also noted that dozens of current House members were born outside the United States.
Focus on Ilhan Omar
During the interview, Fine specifically referenced Ilhan Omar while criticizing lawmakers placing foreign interests ahead of American interests.
Fine additionally said he is continuing to examine allegations tied to Omar’s past personal history and suggested that, if certain claims were substantiated, he would support efforts to pursue her expulsion from the House.
No formal expulsion proceedings have been initiated, and Omar has previously denied allegations of marrying her brother.
Constitutional and Political Questions
The proposed legislation is likely to face significant political scrutiny. The U.S. Constitution establishes qualifications for members of Congress based primarily on age, citizenship duration, and residency, and legal scholars have historically debated whether Congress can impose additional eligibility requirements through ordinary legislation.
Critics of similar proposals have argued that banning dual citizens from office could unfairly target naturalized citizens, while supporters contend that exclusive national allegiance is a reasonable standard for federal officeholders.
Uncertain Future in Congress
Fine acknowledged that the bill faces difficult odds in the Senate.
Harris similarly conceded that advancing the legislation beyond the House poses a significant challenge, but argued that introducing the proposal is intended to elevate concerns about national loyalty and government accountability.
The debate arrives amid broader national discussions about immigration and national identity; themes that have moved to the forefront in recent election cycles.
READ NEXT: Rep. Randy Fine Introduces Legislation To Hold Judges Accountable For Violent Repeat Offenders
