The U.S. Supreme Court has issued a major ruling halting the Trump administration’s attempt to use the centuries-old Alien Enemies Act to quickly deport Venezuelan nationals accused of gang affiliations.
The administration sought to remove individuals linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua with just 24 hours’ notice, arguing that national security concerns justified the expedited process. The Court, however, found the approach unconstitutional, ruling that the detainees were not given sufficient time or information to challenge their deportation.
The decision sends the case back to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals to determine what procedural protections are legally required when using the Alien Enemies Act for immigration enforcement.
President Trump criticized the ruling, calling it a roadblock to efforts aimed at protecting the nation from foreign criminal organizations. The administration has defended the policy as a necessary tool for swiftly removing dangerous individuals.
Legal experts say the ruling reaffirms the judiciary’s commitment to upholding due process, even in cases involving national security. The outcome is expected to influence how future administrations apply historic laws in modern immigration contexts and could reshape the boundaries of executive power in deportation policy.