U.S. legal drama unfolds as District Judge James Boasberg orders the Justice Department to reveal exact details of two deportation flights ✈️ that took off this weekend—despite a temporary two-week halt imposed under the controversial use of an 18th-century law, the Alien Enemies Act of 1798.
The judge is seeking clarity on when the planes departed, when they left U.S. airspace, landed in El Salvador, and how many individuals were processed solely under that act. According to Justice Department lawyers, the flights exited U.S. airspace before Judge Boasberg's written order was issued, arguing that his earlier spoken directives were not enforceable.
The situation escalated when President Trump called for the impeachment of the judge—labeling him a far-left agitator—while U.S. Chief Justice John Roberts quickly reminded everyone that impeachment is not an appropriate response to judicial decisions. This legal tussle is stirring debates over the limits of executive power and judicial authority in immigration policy.
Adding fuel to the fire, top Venezuelan lawmaker Jorge Rodriguez denounced the deportations as “barbaric” and a “crime against humanity,” and Secretary of State Marco Rubio threatened new, severe sanctions on Venezuela if the deportation flights do not continue without further delays. This high-stakes showdown shows that even centuries-old laws can spark major controversies in today’s political arena ⚖️.
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U.S. judge demands flight details as Trump adm. defends deportations
cgtn.com
