Supreme Court Blocks Venezuelan Migrant Deportations Under Alien Enemies Act
Washington, D.C. — April 19, 2025
In a major decision with significant implications for immigration policy and executive authority, the U.S. Supreme Court on Friday blocked the federal government from deporting Venezuelan migrants under the Alien Enemies Act, a centuries-old law originally intended for use during times of war.
In a 6-3 ruling, the Court found that the government’s efforts to remove certain Venezuelan nationals lacked sufficient justification under the 1798 statute, which permits the President to detain or deport nationals of hostile foreign nations during armed conflict. The majority held that the United States is not in a state of declared war with Venezuela, and thus the law cannot be applied in this case.
Writing for the majority, Chief Justice John Roberts stated, “While national security concerns are paramount, the Alien Enemies Act does not grant unchecked authority to remove individuals absent a formal declaration of war or clear and immediate threat.” CLICK HERE FOR MORE
The ruling effectively halts deportation proceedings for thousands of Venezuelans currently residing in the U.S., many of whom fled economic collapse and political turmoil in their home country.
The Biden administration had defended the deportations as a matter of national interest, citing deteriorating relations with the Maduro government and alleged security risks. Critics, however, argued that the use of the Alien Enemies Act in this context was an overreach and a misuse of a law intended for very different circumstances.
Immigrant rights groups hailed the decision as a victory for due process and human rights. “This ruling reaffirms that even in times of uncertainty, the Constitution and the rule of law must prevail,” said Maria Salazar, an attorney with the National Immigration Justice Center. CLICK HERE FOR MORE
The dissent, led by Justice Samuel Alito, warned that the Court’s decision could limit executive flexibility in responding to emerging threats. “The majority opinion narrows a critical tool available to the President at a time of global instability,” Alito wrote.
The decision is expected to have ripple effects beyond the Venezuelan community, potentially setting a precedent for how the Alien Enemies Act may be interpreted in future conflicts involving non-state actors or strained diplomatic relations.
The Department of Homeland Security has yet to issue a formal response but said it would comply with the ruling.
This is a developing story.
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