WASHINGTON — The U.S. Supreme Court agreed Monday to hear a challenge to President Trump's asylum ban, taking up the administration's most sweeping immigration action and forcing the justices to decide how much power a president wields over border policy.
The Court granted review in Department of Homeland Security v. Innovation Law Lab, consolidating challenges from immigration advocates and civil liberties groups. At stake: whether Trump can bar asylum claims from migrants who enter between official ports of entry rather than presenting themselves at a designated crossing.
Trump issued the initial proclamation in November 2018, citing national security and an uptick in border crossings. The administration argued it would funnel migrants toward orderly processing and reduce strain on border resources.
A federal judge in San Francisco blocked much of the ban. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld that ruling, saying the policy likely violates the Immigration and Nationality Act. Challengers argue it also breaches international agreements guaranteeing the right to seek asylum regardless of how someone enters the country.
The case hinges on a fundamental question: Can the president unilaterally restrict who qualifies for asylum, or does Congress control immigration law. A Trump victory would expand executive authority over border operations and could reshape asylum policy for years. A loss would reassert Congress's power and constrain future presidential actions on immigration.
Oral arguments are set for early 2027, with a decision expected by June.
