United States President Donald Trump is preparing to reinstate the 227-year-old ‘Alien Enemies Act,’ potentially creating a significant new challenge for non-U.S. citizens. Trump has already implemented numerous strict measures during his presidency to remove undocumented immigrants from the country, including the deportation of thousands of citizens from Venezuela, India, Brazil, Mexico, and other nations via military vessels. Now, President Trump is considering reactivating this controversial law, enacted in 1798.
According to CNN reports, this act empowers the President to deport any foreign national during wartime in the name of national security. While the law was specifically designed for wartime, the Trump administration plans to apply it even during peacetime. If Trump successfully enacts this law, it could impact not only America but the entire world, as any non-U.S. citizen could be expelled from the country without warning.
What the 227-Year-Old Law States
The Alien Enemies Act, passed in 1798, was designed for wartime. It grants the U.S. President the authority to declare any non-U.S. citizen an "alien enemy" and order their deportation. This law may apply to individuals 14 years of age or older.
Although intended for wartime, President Trump is now considering its application during peacetime, potentially creating a new crisis for non-U.S. citizens, particularly those from nations with potentially strained relationships with America.
Risks of Enacting the Controversial Law
If Trump enacts this law, it could call into question the status of thousands of non-U.S. citizens and generate significant controversy. Legal experts suggest that enacting this law would be difficult for Trump unless a foreign country attacks the U.S., even if he cites threats like gangs or cartels.
Trump's 2024 Election Pledge
During his 2024 election campaign, President Trump repeatedly stated that if re-elected, he would deport undocumented immigrants. He also pledged to implement the Alien Enemies Act, raising concerns and sparking debate among U.S. citizens and political analysts.
