A Republican senator from Ohio has sparked nationwide debate after introducing a bill that seeks to eliminate dual citizenship in the United States, asserting that American nationals should hold “sole and exclusive allegiance” to the country. The measure, known as the “Exclusive Citizenship Act of 2025,” was filed by Sen. Bernie Moreno and proposes sweeping changes to long-standing citizenship policies.
Under current U.S. law, American citizens are permitted to hold citizenship in another country. The State Department recognizes that dual citizens owe allegiance to both nations and are subject to both sets of laws. However, Moreno argues that this dual commitment is incompatible with the principles of national loyalty and civic responsibility.
Moreno, who was born in Colombia and immigrated to the United States as a child, drew from his personal experience when introducing the bill. Upon turning 18, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen and formally renounced his Colombian citizenship. For him, that moment represented a complete and unwavering pledge to the United States.
“It was an honor to pledge an oath of allegiance to the United States of America and ONLY to the United States of America,” Moreno said in a public statement. “Being an American citizen is an honor and a privilege—and if you want to be an American, it’s all or nothing. It’s time to end dual citizenship for good.”
If enacted, the proposed law would give current dual citizens a one-year period to choose between retaining their U.S. citizenship or remaining citizens of their foreign country. The bill outlines no exceptions, meaning all dual nationals—from private citizens to public figures—would be affected.
Among those potentially impacted are First Lady Melania Trump and her son, Barron Trump, who reportedly hold dual citizenship in the United States and Slovenia, according to a New York Times report. The proposal has therefore drawn heightened media attention, given the political prominence of individuals who might be required to renounce foreign nationality.
Critics of the bill argue that dual citizenship promotes global mobility, economic opportunity, and cultural connection, while supporters claim the measure strengthens national unity and clarifies civic allegiance. As the bill enters congressional discussion, it is expected to ignite vigorous debate among lawmakers, legal experts, and immigrant communities.
The coming months will determine whether the United States moves toward a historic shift in its citizenship policy—one that could redefine what it means to be American in an increasingly interconnected world.