WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department on Friday asked an appeals court to block a contempt investigation linked to the Trump administration's actions regarding Venezuelan migrants scheduled for deportation.
Department officials are also seeking the removal of Chief Judge James Boasberg from the case, citing claims of bias as tensions mount between the judiciary and the Trump administration over court rulings obstructing the president’s broad agenda.
The requests are expected to be resolved by Monday, just ahead of a scheduled testimony from a former government attorney involved in a whistleblower complaint regarding the matter.
The Justice Department argued that the inquiry led by Judge Boasberg is sensational in nature, calling it a “fishing expedition” aimed at extracting extended testimonies without seeking factual clarity. They contend it undermines the separation of powers and attorney-client privilege.
Despite concerns, Boasberg insists the appeals court's previous ruling empowers him to proceed with the investigation, aiming to establish whether the administration's actions warrant a prosecution referral.
As the case unfolds, it highlights a confrontation between the branch of government and the legal system, with Boasberg referencing potential misconduct by the Trump administration as they allegedly rushed the deportation of Venezuelan migrants in defiance of his orders.
Boasberg’s planned hearings this week are expected to include testimony from individuals connected to both the Trump administration and the Justice Department’s ongoing inquiry, potentially unveiling more details about the Trump administration's tactics regarding immigration enforcement.
