Summary

A federal judge temporarily blocked the Trump administration from using the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport five Venezuelans.

The ACLU and Democracy Forward sued, arguing Trump planned to classify a Venezuelan gang as a “predatory incursion” and deport all Venezuelans as members.

Judge James E. Boasberg issued a 14-day restraining order to maintain the status quo. The Trump administration quickly appealed.

The law, last used during WWII, requires a formal declaration of war, raising legal concerns over its application in immigration enforcement.