Court Backs Trump-Era Policy on Church Immigration Enforcement
A federal judge ruled Friday that the Trump administration can continue immigration enforcement actions in places of worship. The decision came in response to a lawsuit filed by 27 religious groups challenging the end of a prior policy restricting enforcement in “sensitive locations.”
Judge Rules Claims Are Too Hypothetical
U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich, a Trump appointee, dismissed the case because the plaintiffs lacked standing. The judge said the organizations had not shown direct harm or imminent risk. Their claims were deemed too speculative to warrant a court order.
Faith Leaders Warn of Chilling Effect
The plaintiffs, which included the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church USA and the Central Conference of American Rabbis, argued that the policy change endangers their mission. They claimed it discourages undocumented immigrants from seeking sanctuary or participating in religious life and violates their religious freedom rights under federal law and the First Amendment.
Policy Aligned With Trump’s Deportation Agenda
The Department of Homeland Security and other agencies named in the suit declined to comment. The Trump administration has supported stricter immigration enforcement and emphasized deportation as a core goal. Ending church protections, they argue, closes loopholes used to evade arrest.
Advocates Say Churches May Lose Trust
Supporters of the administration say the ruling affirms equal application of the law. They argue that no place should be off-limits to lawful enforcement. Critics believe the decision undermines humanitarian efforts and could deter vulnerable communities from seeking help. They warn that trust in religious institutions may suffer.
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US judge will not curb immigration enforcement in places of worship
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