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DC Circuit Upholds Trump’s Deportation Strategy Amid Contempt Inquiry

11/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Divided DC Circuit Court of Appeals upholds the Trump administration's use of the Alien Enemies Act in deportations, while allowing ongoing contempt inquiries.
DC Circuit declines to reinstate a lower court's contempt ruling against officials for ignoring orders to halt Venezuelan deportations.
Judge Florence Pan criticized the administration's appeal and said the district court acted within its rights to investigate alleged unlawful policies, amid criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump.

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Story summary

Divided DC Circuit Court of Appeals upholds the Trump administration's use of the Alien Enemies Act in deportations, while allowing ongoing contempt inquiries.
DC Circuit declines to reinstate a lower court's contempt ruling against officials for ignoring orders to halt Venezuelan deportations.
Judge Florence Pan criticized the administration's appeal and said the district court acted within its rights to investigate alleged unlawful policies, amid criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump.