A federal judge strongly criticized former President Donald Trump on Thursday while indefinitely blocking his executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship. The judge accused Trump of attempting to bypass legal principles to manipulate constitutional policies.

"It has become increasingly clear that to our president, the rule of law is merely an obstacle to his policy objectives," said U.S. District Judge John Coughenour during a hearing in Seattle. "The rule of law, in his view, is something to evade or ignore, whether for political or personal gain. In this courtroom, under my watch, the rule of law remains a guiding principle."

Coughenour emphasized that the Constitution cannot be subjected to policy maneuvers, stating that any changes to birthright citizenship must go through the constitutional amendment process.

The new nationwide preliminary injunction expands an earlier short-term block on Trump’s order. Additionally, a federal judge in Maryland also issued an injunction against the order on Wednesday.

The ruling, issued by a judge originally appointed by Ronald Reagan, represents one of the most forceful rejections of Trump’s efforts to revoke birthright citizenship. Trump’s executive order had faced immediate legal challenges from various states and private plaintiffs.

The Justice Department announced late Thursday that it would appeal the ruling, with the case now set to go before the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which could ultimately bring the issue before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Headline:

Undocumented Father Detained by Federal Agents in Florida After Sharing His Hopes for Legal Residency

News Article:

A day after expressing his hopes of becoming a legal U.S. resident in an interview with CNN, an undocumented father was detained by federal agents in South Florida—months ahead of his scheduled asylum interview.

Video footage affiliate WPLG captured agents in camouflage tactical gear detaining Dante Lopez at his home in Coral Springs, a suburb of Fort Lauderdale, on Wednesday afternoon.

Lopez had previously encountered federal agents at his home on Monday but said they left after failing to present a warrant.

“What is happening feels like a nightmare,” Lopez told WPLG earlier this week. “My only wish is for my children to be safe.”

Originally from Peru, Lopez entered the U.S. illegally 14 years ago to escape violence. Since then, he has established himself as a homeowner, husband, and father to three U.S.-born children.

“I bought a home, I pay my taxes, I have no criminal record, and I’ve always been a good citizen,” Lopez. “I just want the opportunity to become a legal resident.”

He also criticized the government's handling of individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riot, questioning why some had received pardons while he faced detention.

It remains unclear why agents detained Lopez, who last had an in-person appointment with immigration authorities in January. His next appointment was scheduled for July.

has reached out to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for further comment.