Federal Judge Allows Immigration Enforcement in Churches, Upholds Controversial Policy

A federal judge has upheld the Trump administration's policy allowing immigration enforcement at houses of worship, denying a request for a preliminary injunction from over two dozen Christian and Jewish groups. U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich ruled that the plaintiffs did not demonstrate sufficient legal standing or evidence that places of worship are being targeted for enforcement actions. The policy, which reverses a three-decade precedent of protecting 'sensitive locations' from immigration raids, went into effect on January 20, 2025. Religious organizations argued that the policy has led to significant declines in congregational attendance due to fear of ICE actions, but the judge noted that attendance drops could be linked to general increased ICE activity in neighborhoods rather than a specific targeting of religious sites. The ruling has drawn concern from religious leaders who fear the chilling effect on immigrant communities' participation in religious services. The plaintiffs are currently evaluating their legal options following the decision.