A federal court in southern Texas has permanently enjoined the Trump administration from deporting Venezuelan nationals under the Alien Enemies Act (AEA), asserting that the administration’s application of the 18th-century statute exceeds constitutional authority and misinterprets the law’s intent.
In the case of JAV v. Trump, U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. ruled that the administration’s invocation of the AEA, based on claims that the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua posed an “invasion” threat, does not meet the legal criteria established by the statute.
“The President cannot unilaterally declare an invasion of the United States and invoke a wartime authority during peacetime,” stated Lee Gelernt, lead counsel for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which, along with the ACLU of Texas, brought the lawsuit.
Adriana Piñon, legal director of the ACLU of Texas, emphasized the broader implications: “This permanent injunction is a significant win for preventing unlawful, unilateral executive action that has been stoking fear across Texas, especially within border communities.”
The court’s decision underscores the importance of adhering to constitutional protections and the limits of executive power, particularly concerning immigration enforcement and the rights of non-citizens.
Sources:
- Texas Federal Court Rules Against Trump Administration on Alien Enemies Act – ACLU Press Release
- Court Order and Permanent Injunction PDF
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