In a landmark 7–2 ruling issued on May 16, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court halted the federal government’s attempt to rapidly deport Venezuelan nationals under the long-dormant Alien Enemies Act of 1798. The case, Doe v. Garland, centered on the Department of Homeland Security’s efforts to bypass conventional immigration procedures for individuals allegedly associated with criminal activity.
The government argued that the Act, originally enacted during the John Adams administration, provided sufficient legal authority to detain and remove noncitizens during times of conflict. The Supreme Court, however, found that the invocation of this centuries-old statute lacked adequate procedural safeguards, particularly regarding notice and opportunity to contest deportation.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor, writing for the majority, emphasized the enduring importance of due process, stating, “Even in times of uncertainty, our constitutional commitments remain constant.” The decision is likely to affect a wide range of ongoing deportation efforts and could reshape how immigration authorities leverage historical laws in modern contexts.
This ruling serves as a critical reminder of the Court’s gatekeeping function in ensuring constitutional protections, particularly when executive agencies assert expansive powers in matters of national security.