The US administration, led by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, is exploring the possibility of suspending habeas corpus, a fundamental right that allows individuals to challenge their detention in court. Miller claims this move is contingent upon the courts’ willingness to “do the right thing”. He describes habeas corpus as a “privilege” and cites a law that strips judicial courts of jurisdiction over immigration cases.
Background and Implications
Habeas corpus, which translates to “you should have the body,” enables a person to be brought before a judge to determine the legitimacy of their detention. However, the US Constitution grants Congress the authority to suspend habeas corpus, not the president. Critics argue that the administration’s interpretation of the law is flawed.
Quotes and Reactions
Key Quotes:
- “A lot of it depends on whether the courts do the right thing or not,” – Stephen Miller
- “Congress has the authority to suspend habeas corpus – not Stephen Miller, not the president,” – Marc Elias, attorney for the Democratic Party
Deportation Efforts and Targeting of Activists
The Trump administration has been actively pursuing deportations, particularly targeting international students and academics who engage in pro-Palestinian speech. Over 1,000 international students and graduates have had their visas revoked or status terminated as of April 17, 2025. The administration reportedly uses an artificial intelligence program to scrape social media posts and identify potential deportees.
Notable Cases:
- Rasha Alawieh: A Lebanese transplant nephrologist who had her H-1B visa approved but faces uncertainty due to the administration’s policies.
- Yunseo Chung: A Columbia University student who had her permanent resident status revoked after participating in a protest.
- Alireza Doroudi: A University of Alabama doctoral student from Iran who was arrested by ICE and claimed to pose “significant national security concerns” without evidence.
- Mohsen Mahdawi: A Palestinian Columbia University student facing deportation to the West Bank, which he claims would be a “death sentence” due to ongoing Israeli incursions.
Reactions and Lawsuits
Over 200 higher educational institutions have signed a letter pledging to resist the Trump administration’s attacks on universities, including the deportation of students. The American Association of University Professors and the Middle East Studies Association have filed a lawsuit against the administration, arguing that it promotes an “ideological-deportation policy” that harms university communities and violates the First Amendment.