Trump administration plans to make citizenship test harder, sparking debate (includes video story)

The Trump administration plans changes to a test that could make becoming an American citizen tougher. 

The new test could potentially include an essay in English and more thought-provoking questions about American history and civics. 

Some questions that may be included, according to U.S Citizenship and Immigration Services director Joseph Edlow, are, “What does it mean to be an American?” and “Who was your favorite founding father?”

Supporters argue it will only raise the bar for becoming a U.S citizen. However, critics say it raises an unfair barrier. 

“I have read articles that say that the average, U.S born citizen would not be able to pass the civics test as it is,” said immigration lawyer Erica Reilly. “And so why are we going to put an additional burden on people who want to be U.S. citizens who are seeking to become U.S. citizens, who want to contribute to this country, by choice?”

USCIS hopes to implement the changes within the next year. 

Ivanna Hilewsky is a senior at Florida International University who is pursuing a degree in digital communications and media with a track in broadcasting. She is passionate about broadcast journalism, acting and learning more about the legal system.