Trump Administration Invokes Alien Enemies Act

Border czar Tom Homan addressed questions about the Trump administration’s use of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. This act allows the president to deport nationals of enemy countries without a hearing during conflicts. President Trump applied this law to target Venezuelan nationals associated with the Tren de Aragua gang in the United States.

When questioned about using such an old law, Homan drew a comparison to the Constitution, suggesting that age doesn’t diminish relevance. Rep. Wesley Hunt of Texas supported Homan’s defense, noting the irony in criticizing the enforcement of constitutional principles.

The application of the Alien Enemies Act to current issues highlights the administration’s approach to immigration and national security, sparking debates across the political spectrum.

Homan’s Defense and Constitutional Parallels

Homan’s response to the reporter’s question emphasized that a law’s age doesn’t negate its validity or applicability. By equating the Alien Enemies Act with the Constitution, he reinforced the idea that longstanding legal tools can still serve important purposes in modern governance.

"An old law?" Homan asked. "Not as old as the Constitution. We still pay attention to that, don't we?"

This exchange illustrates the administration’s readiness to use historical statutes to address contemporary threats. While this approach has sparked debates over due process, it reflects a commitment to utilizing all available constitutional mechanisms to tackle perceived national security issues.

The incident raises an important question: How can historical legal frameworks be effectively applied to present-day challenges while preserving the principles established by the founding fathers?

Political Reactions and Implications

The Trump administration’s use of the Alien Enemies Act elicited varied reactions from political figures and the public. Rep. Wesley Hunt framed Homan’s stance as emblematic of the ongoing tension between constitutional principles and modern interpretations of governance.

Presidents As Kids!

Donald Trump – 45/47th President (2017-2020 / 2025-present)

Joe Biden – 46th President (2021-2024)

George W. Bush – 43rd President (2001–2009)

Jimmy Carter – 39th President (1977–1981)

Bill Clinton – 42nd President (1993–2001)

Gerald Ford – 38th President (1974–1977)

George H. W. Bush – 41st President (1989–1993)

John F. Kennedy – 35th President (1961–1963)

Lyndon B. Johnson – 36th President (1963–1969)

Richard Nixon – 37th President (1969–1974)

Barack Obama – 44th President (2009–2017)

Ronald Reagan – 40th President (1981–1989)

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• Critics argue that bypassing traditional legal procedures could erode due process protections.
• Proponents stress the importance of adapting longstanding legal tools to contemporary challenges.

By invoking this historic statute, the administration positions itself as a defender of the nation, using constitutional heritage to address immigration concerns. This approach aligns with originalist interpretations of law, sending a clear message: safeguarding the republic requires the prudent application of its founders’ wisdom.

The use of the Alien Enemies Act serves not just as a legal maneuver but as a deliberate nod to an era where national security was paramount. Through this lens, the conversation extends beyond legality, touching on fundamental questions of national identity, sovereignty, and the ongoing quest to balance liberty with order.

Key questions for consideration:

1. How might this approach shape future discussions on the role of historical legislation in addressing modern challenges?
2. What implications does it hold for the balance between national security and individual rights?

1. Alien Enemies Act of 1798, 50 U.S.C. § 21-24.
2. Hunt W. Social media post. Twitter. March 18, 2025.