Stand with Judge Boasberg Against Secretive Deportations

We applaud U.S. District Judge James Boasberg for standing firm in defense of constitutional rights, transparency, and due process as the Trump administration pushes an unprecedented and dangerous use of the Alien Enemies Act to deport noncitizens—many of whom have no criminal records.

Judge Boasberg courageously called out the administration's rushed, secretive deportations of Venezuelan nationals under a centuries-old wartime law. He rightly questioned the administration’s sweeping claims of executive authority, lack of individualized assessments, and potential violations of his court order.

As he noted, the government's attempt to summarily deport individuals based on suspicion—not evidence—is “incredibly troublesome and problematic.” His insistence on accountability, transparency, and judicial review is a vital check on executive overreach and a reminder that even the president must follow the rule of law.

We are especially grateful to Judge Boasberg for refusing to allow vague invocations of “national security” to shut down judicial oversight. Democracy cannot function if courts are sidelined in the name of secrecy.

We urge our fellow Americans to stand with Judge Boasberg and all those defending civil liberties, immigrant rights, and the rule of law. Deportation should never be used as a political stunt or carried out in the shadows.

Thank you, Judge Boasberg, for your courage, clarity, and unwavering commitment to justice.