U.S. Judge Blocks Trump Immigration Policy Affecting 39 Nations

U.S. District Chief Judge John McConnell Jr. ruled that a Trump administration immigration policy enacted after the shooting of two National Guard members was unlawful. The policy had barred immigrants from 39 countries—spanning Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Middle East—from receiving final decisions on asylum, work permits, green cards and citizenship. McConnell described the measures as “arbitrary and capricious,” criticizing USCIS for exceeding its statutory authority and discriminating based on nationality.

The decision orders USCIS to resume processing for the affected applications. White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Homeland Security Stephen Miller responded with strong disapproval, warning that the ruling undermines American interests and could erode public confidence in the courts. The ruling is expected to be appealed, leaving the future of the immigration controls in contention.