March 18, 2025 11:04 AM

Know the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 that Trump wants to use in deportations

U.S. President Donald Trump invoked the Alien Enemies Act in a proclamation made public on Saturday as part of his pledge to deport millions of people who are in the country illegally. Below is a look at the act and how it has been used in the past. WHAT IS THE ACT? The Alien Enemies Act was enacted in 1798 to combat spying and sabotage during tensions with France. It authorizes the president to deport, detain or place restrictions on individuals whose primary allegiance is to a foreign power...