White House Denounces Judge’s Move to Halt Deportation Flights: 'No Lawful Basis'

The White House has slammed a federal judge’s attempt to stop deportation flights to El Salvador, describing the move as having "no lawful basis." The Trump administration, which initiated the deportations, seems unfazed by the legal challenge, as the flights had already taken off before the judge’s order was issued.

President Donald Trump invoked the rarely-used Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to justify the deportations. This act has historically been invoked only during the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II. It allows the deportation of nationals from enemy countries without a hearing. Talk about dusting off a relic from the history books!

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg attempted to halt the deportations, citing the need to assess the legality of Trump’s actions. However, by the time his order was issued, the planes had already left U.S. airspace, leaving little room for intervention. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt didn’t mince words, asserting that the administration had not defied any court order.

In a statement, Leavitt declared, "The order, which had no lawful basis, was issued after terrorist [Tren de Aragua] aliens had already been removed from U.S. territory." She emphasized that the administration’s actions were in line with legal precedents and the President’s constitutional powers. She also took a jab at the judiciary, remarking that a single judge couldn’t dictate the actions of an entire administration when it comes to national security and foreign affairs.

El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele added a touch of humor to the situation, responding to the judge’s order with a cheeky "Oopsie… too late" on social media. He also posted footage of heavily armed Salvadoran authorities detaining the deported gang members and processing them into custody. If there’s ever been a more Salvadoran way of saying "we’ve got this," this might be it.

The deportations included 261 individuals, with 137 removed under the Alien Enemies Act, 101 Venezuelans deported under Title 8, and 21 Salvadoran MS-13 gang members. Among them were two high-profile gang leaders deemed "special cases" by El Salvador. Crimes committed by the deportees ranged from kidnapping and child sexual abuse to assaulting police officers. The Trump administration seems to be sending a clear message: no more sanctuary for violent offenders.

Vice President JD Vance voiced his support for the deportations, stating, "There were violent criminals and rapists in our country. Democrats fought to keep them here. President Trump deported them." The administration appears resolute in defending its actions, regardless of the court’s intervention.

This clash highlights the ongoing tension between the judiciary and the executive branch, particularly on issues of immigration and national security. While the deportations are likely to face further legal scrutiny, the administration’s firm stance suggests this is far from over.