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Trump Defends Controversial 18th-Century Law for Deportations

1/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump defends using an 18th-century wartime law to detain and deport people.
The policy targets individuals including British citizens under a claimed "British invasion."
During a hearing, Department of Justice attorney Drew Ensign argued the president may declare such threats.
The Fifth Circuit is reviewing the case, with a potential Supreme Court ruling.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump defends using an 18th-century wartime law to detain and deport people.
The policy targets individuals including British citizens under a claimed "British invasion."
During a hearing, Department of Justice attorney Drew Ensign argued the president may declare such threats.
The Fifth Circuit is reviewing the case, with a potential Supreme Court ruling.