Judge Extends Restraining Order Against Trump's Use of Alien Enemies Act to Deport Venezuelans

A Judge Extends Restraining Order Against Alien Enemies Act

A federal judge in Washington D.C. has extended a restraining order against the Alien Enemies Act, a wartime immigration law that the Trump administration sought to use to deport Venezuelan nationals suspected of being members of the Tren de Aragua gang. The extension will remain in effect until April 12.

This ruling comes after a separate decision by a federal judge in Boston, who blocked the deportation of migrants to countries where they have no existing relationship without a chance to contest the move in court.

Last week, the same D.C. judge had issued a temporary restraining order against the use of the Alien Enemies Act for deportations, citing the need for further consideration of the case. He ordered the return of any planes carrying Venezuelan nationals or other deportees under the act.

The Trump administration has appealed the restraining order to the U.S. Court of Appeals and requested an emergency stay, arguing that the lower court's orders contradict the president's agenda and limit the administration's ability to protect the nation against foreign terrorist organizations.

The administration also claims that the lower court's orders threaten sensitive negotiations with foreign powers and could cause serious and irreparable harm if not immediately reviewed by the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court has been asked to review the restraining order, and a decision is expected soon.