A federal judge in Seattle has halted former President Donald Trump’s executive order suspending the U.S. refugee admissions program, declaring it undermines congressional authority over immigration policy. U.S. District Judge Jamal Whitehead ruled Tuesday that Trump’s attempt to pause refugee resettlement “effectively nullifies” decades-old federal laws designed to protect vulnerable populations escaping war and persecution.
“While the president holds substantial discretion on refugee admissions, this authority is not limitless,”Whitehead stated during the hearing. The decision responds to a lawsuit from refugee aid groups including HIAS, Church World Service, and Lutheran Community Services Northwest, who argued the freeze:
- Separated families approved for reunification
- Stranded refugees mid-travel
- Paralyzed critical resettlement operations
Justice Department lawyers defended Trump’s order as necessary to relieve communities strained by “record migration levels.” However, the judge emphasized Congress created the refugee system to balance humanitarian obligations with security vetting – a process refugee advocates note already takes 18-24 months.
This marks Trump’s second major legal defeat on refugee policy, following his 2017 travel ban. Despite bipartisan support historically, refugee caps plummeted 85% during his administration. Last week, a Washington D.C. court declined to block similar restrictions in a separate Catholic Bishops’ lawsuit, highlighting deepening judicial divides.
With over 35,000 refugees awaiting entry, advocates warn prolonged delays could collapse local resettlement programs. “This ruling keeps America’s promise alive,” said HIAS CEO Mark Hetfield. Meanwhile, the DOJ prepares a potential emergency appeal, ensuring this constitutional clash will escalate.
