DOJ Files 40 Denaturalization Suits in Largest Citizenship Revocation Push

Key points

• The Justice Department filed denaturalization petitions against 40 individuals across multiple federal courts between August 21 and October 2, 2026.
• Attorney General Todd Blanche described the initiative as the largest in the department's history, citing cases involving espionage, sexual offenses, and fraud.
• The 40 individuals originate from 20 countries, with the largest groups from Mexico (9), Pakistan (4), and China (2).
• A June 2025 memo directed the DOJ to prioritize denaturalization for national security threats and undisclosed felonies.
• An unnamed DOJ official told CNN that the administration plans to file at least 250 denaturalization cases by October 2026.

Background

This action follows a 2025 Justice Department memo that expanded categories for citizenship revocation, aligning with the administration's broader deportation agenda. Historically, denaturalization was rare, with only about 120 cases from 2017 to late 2025. The current push contrasts with the 1967 Supreme Court ruling in Afroyim v. Rusk, which made citizenship largely irrevocable unless voluntarily renounced or obtained through fraud.

How outlets are covering it

The Guardian and Time Magazine emphasize the scale of the action, noting it surpasses previous efforts. NBC News highlights the legal basis, focusing on allegations of fraud and omitted facts in naturalization applications. The New York Times previously reported that the DOJ identified 384 potential targets in April 2026, suggesting this is part of a larger, ongoing campaign. Critics argue the process is costly and manpower-intensive, while the administration frames it as a necessary measure for national security.

Why it matters

The denaturalization drive signals a shift in how the US government enforces citizenship laws, potentially affecting millions of naturalized citizens. It raises legal and ethical questions about the revocation of citizenship and the balance between national security and individual rights. The move also reflects the administration's broader strategy to tighten immigration controls and redefine the criteria for citizenship.

What to watch

The Justice Department plans to file at least 250 denaturalization cases by October 2026. Legal challenges are expected, as the Supreme Court requires a high bar of proof for stripping citizenship. The administration may continue to expand its denaturalization efforts, potentially targeting more individuals in the coming months.