Federal judges have strongly condemned the Trump administration’s reliance on the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport alleged Venezuelan gang members without due process. Judge Patricia Millett remarked that “Nazis received better treatment under this law,” raising concerns over the lack of legal recourse for deportees.
The administration used this rarely invoked wartime statute to expedite the removal of individuals suspected of belonging to the Tren de Aragua gang, classified as a terrorist organization by the U.S. However, critics argue that many deportees were wrongfully identified and denied the chance to challenge their alleged gang ties.
U.S. District Judge James Boasberg previously halted the deportations, citing due process violations. Despite this, the administration proceeded with removals, escalating legal battles between the executive branch and the judiciary.
In response, some Republicans have proposed limiting federal court authority, including restricting nationwide injunctions and even impeaching judges who block Trump’s policies. Democrats and legal experts warn these actions threaten judicial independence and constitutional checks and balances.
The case highlights the ongoing struggle over executive power, immigration enforcement, and the legal rights of non-citizens in the U.S.
