The Trump administration is locked in a legal standoff with the judiciary over the deportation of alleged Venezuelan gang members, invoking the rarely used Alien Enemies Act of 1798. This move has sparked concerns over executive power and due process.
On March 15, 2025, President Trump used the Act to expedite the removal of individuals linked to the “Tren de Aragua” gang, bypassing traditional legal procedures. A U.S. federal judge, James E. Boasberg, blocked the deportations, citing due process violations. However, the administration continued flights, arguing that once airborne, they were beyond U.S. jurisdiction.
The Justice Department has resisted the judge’s demand for flight details, citing national security concerns. Meanwhile, the White House accuses the judiciary of overreach, setting the stage for a potential Supreme Court battle. The outcome could redefine executive authority in immigration enforcement.
