Trump Faces Backlash Over Venezuelan Deportations

The Trump administration faced backlash after deporting hundreds of Venezuelan gang members to El Salvador, invoking the rarely-used Alien Enemies Act of 1798, despite a federal judge's order to halt the deportations. The White House justified the action by asserting that the judge's order was received after flights had already departed, and claimed the act's legal authority was beyond judicial review. This decision prompted significant controversy, with experts labeling it a violation of judicial authority and an assault on the rule of law. Republican lawmakers, including Rep. Brandon Gill, called for the impeachment of Judge James Boasberg, who issued the restraining order. The United States paid El Salvador $6 million to house the deported individuals, which President Bukele described as a low fee for his country. Despite the controversy, the deportations have not been continued pending further legal challenges and appeals.