U.S. judge blocks Trump’s asylum ban, rules ıt exceeds executive authority

A federal judge has halted President Donald Trump’s controversial asylum ban at the U.S.-Mexico border, ruling that the move oversteps his executive powers. The decision marks a major legal setback for Trump’s immigration policies and upholds protections for migrants seeking refuge.

Judge Randolph Moss said that Trump’s proclamation declaring illegal immigration an emergency and overriding existing legal asylum procedures went beyond his executive powers.

The ban, issued in January, barred all migrants crossing the southern border from claiming asylum or other humanitarian protections. The ruling represents a setback for Trump, who returned to office promising a tough stance on immigration, and during whose tenure illegal border crossings dropped to record lows.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) challenged the ban, arguing it violated U.S. laws and international treaties. Trump’s restrictions were stricter than similar measures introduced by Democratic President Joe Biden in 2024.

Judge Moss emphasised that neither federal immigration law nor the U.S. Constitution grants the president the sweeping power to disregard established asylum procedures. He ruled the ban unlawful.

The White House has criticised the ruling and announced plans to appeal. A spokesperson stated that the administration has the right to secure the border and that the judge lacked authority to impede these efforts.

This decision marks a significant moment in ongoing U.S. immigration debates and reflects the judiciary’s increasing pushback against Trump’s hardline policies.

ACLU Attorney Lee Gelernt said the ruling protects migrants’ rights and affirmed that the president cannot override laws by labelling asylum seekers as “invaders.”

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