...doesn't apply to Americans, it doesn't apply to citizens, it doesn't even apply to "people." It applies to the federal government. The body of the Constitution tells the federal government what it is allowed to do, and in some places it explains how to do it (election procedures and such). The Bill of Rights tells the federal government what it is not allowed to do.

what benefits does anyone who was born a citizen

BENEFITS OF U.S. CITIZENSHIP

·         A citizen has the right to vote for elected officials at the federal, state and local levels who shape the policy of the government.

·         Only a citizen has the right to hold most city, state or federal offices, and the right to hold certain federal, state and city jobs.

·         Citizens can leave the U.S. and live in another country for as long as they want and travel may be easier for U.S. citizens in certain countries.

·         Citizens can petition for more family members to come to the U.S. with shorter waiting lists for green cards.

·         Citizens cannot be prevented from re-entering the U.S. or be deported.

·         Citizens do not have to worry about renewing their green cards every ten years.

·         Citizens who retire abroad receive full Social Security benefits (whereas lawful permanent residents receive only half their benefits) and citizens may be subject to fewer restrictions on estate taxes.

·         Certain countries, including Ireland and the United Kingdom, recognize "dual citizenship" permitting naturalized U.S. citizens to maintain their citizenship of birth and original passport.

·         Citizens are eligible for more public benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Food Stamps, and certain types of educational scholarships and financial aid.

·         In some cases, children under 18 years of age can naturalize automatically with their parents.

See also