Judge Transfers Mahmoud Khalil's Immigration Case to New Jersey

A federal judge has transferred the immigration case of Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Khalil to New Jersey from New York, where he was initially detained. Judge Jesse Furman ruled that the case should be heard in New Jersey since Khalil was moved there shortly after his arrest by ICE agents at his university apartment. The Trump administration seeks to deport Khalil, who holds a green card, alleging he poses a national security threat, while his lawyers argue that his detention is politically motivated due to his activism. Furman's decision upholds a previous order preventing Khalil's deportation while his case is litigated, emphasizing the need for judicial review in the appropriate jurisdiction. Khalil's case is seen as a critical test of the administration's immigration policies and their impact on lawful residents, especially regarding political speech. His next court appearance is set for March 27.