A U.S. federal judge has blocked President Donald Trump’s controversial asylum ban at the southern border, ruling that the president overstepped his executive authority. In a 128-page decision, U.S. District Judge Randolph Moss stated that Trump’s January 20 proclamation — which barred migrants “engaged in the invasion across the southern border” from seeking asylum — violated federal immigration law and the Constitution.
The decision marks a significant legal setback for Trump, who returned to the White House pledging a tough immigration crackdown. Although border crossings have dropped to historic lows under his administration, Trump’s sweeping asylum ban went further than the 2024 restrictions introduced by President Joe Biden, parts of which were also blocked in court.
The lawsuit, led by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) on behalf of migrant advocates and asylum seekers, argued the ban violated both U.S. law and international treaties. Moss, an Obama appointee, agreed, stating that the president cannot override asylum protections enacted by Congress.
Moss paused the implementation of his order for 14 days to allow the Trump administration time to appeal. The ruling covers all migrants impacted by the ban, including those in a certified class action, which remains unaffected by recent Supreme Court limits on nationwide injunctions.
The White House responded defiantly, with spokeswoman Abigail Jackson asserting that the judge lacked authority to block Trump’s actions. “We expect to be vindicated on appeal,” she said.
ACLU attorney Lee Gelernt welcomed the ruling, emphasizing it protects those fleeing persecution. “The president cannot erase laws by branding asylum seekers as invaders,” he said.
This case highlights ongoing tensions between the executive branch and the judiciary over immigration policy and the limits of presidential power.