A federal judge dealt a setback to President Donald Trump’s administration on Thursday over its June travel ban.
Judge Sparkle Sooknanan ruled that the State Department cannot use the ban to deny visas to 82 would-be immigrants whose applications were put “on hold” under the policy.
The ruling, however, does not give the applicants free rein.
Authorities may still block entry at U.S. ports of entry or instruct airline officials to deny boarding.
“This ruling ensures they are technically eligible for visas, but access to the country is not guaranteed,” Sooknanan explained.
Trump’s travel ban was enacted during his second term after similar measures faced repeated court challenges in his first term, per Newsweek.
The administration has argued visa restrictions and travel bans are essential for national security. Officials maintain the president has the authority to decide who can enter the United States.
The court emphasized that the law underlying the travel ban does not authorize visa refusals in this manner. It declined to defer to the State Department’s historical practices.
“Supreme Court precedent limits agency discretion, and this case illustrates that principle,” the court said in its opinion.
The ruling benefits 55 diversity visa applicants from nations including Afghanistan, Burma, Togo, Somalia, and Iran. Their applications had been stuck since early 2024.
“These individuals moved through the visa program and would suffer harm if their visas were not issued,” Sooknanan said.
The judge did not rule the travel ban unlawful overall. Restrictions on visa issuances remain in effect for all others, pending further litigation.
Curtis Morrison, an immigration attorney representing the plaintiffs, praised the ruling.
“Now, let’s hope when it’s time for the Trump administration to review the ban at the 90-day mark they do that in good faith,” Morrison said. “It should lead to a less restrictive ban that will allow plaintiffs with issued immigrant visas to immigrate to the U.S. and start their lives here.”
Tommy Pigott, principal deputy spokesperson for the State Department, criticized the court.
“Another example of wrongful judicial overreach aimed at curtailing this Administration’s strong and unwavering efforts to keep Americans and our communities safe,” Pigott said. “We will continue to work to ensure the President is able to use every tool he has available, including visas, to bring oversight to who we allow to visit our country.”
The ruling marks a rare setback for Trump on immigration policy. The administration faces a delicate balance between enforcing its travel restrictions and complying with the court’s directive.
For the 55 diversity visa applicants, the decision opens a path to legal entry, though real-world obstacles remain.
Customs and Border Protection retains the authority to deny entry even after visas are issued.
The case highlights the ongoing legal challenges Trump’s immigration policies continue to face, years into his presidency.
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Author: Anthony Gonzalez
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