Immigrants Challenge Legality of Presidential Order Blocking U.S. Entry
The plaintiffs, a total of 58, include highly skilled professionals—such as medical researchers, pilots, and artificial intelligence specialists—whose work has been identified as vital to U.S. innovation and national interests. Despite having completed visa interviews, these applicants remain stuck in administrative limbo due to delays intensified by the travel ban.
National Interest Loophole Allegedly Ignored
The lawsuit argues that, although the proclamation allows for national interest exceptions, in practice, no such waivers have been granted to date. Immigration attorney Curtis Morrison, of Red Eagle Law LC, who represents the plaintiffs, stated to Newsweek that the Department of Homeland Security has already acknowledged that the plaintiffs’ entry would serve the national interest. However, they continue to face indefinite postponements.
“This case is about more than visas. It’s about holding the executive branch accountable,” Morrison said. He added that he remains confident that Judge Tanya Chutkan, who is presiding over the case Ariani v. Blinken, will permit an amendment to the complaint that challenges the scope of the ban under legal provision 212(f)—an issue she has ruled on favorably in the past.
Trump’s June Proclamation Triggers Backlash
The travel ban, issued by President Trump on June 4, expands existing immigration restrictions and reaffirms national security vetting requirements. Though exceptions for those deemed in the national interest were promised, the lawsuit contends that none have materialized for this group of applicants.
As part of a broader tightening of immigration rules, the Trump administration also implemented a new policy on June 11 requiring all green card applicants to submit updated medical exams with no grace period. This abrupt change imposes additional financial burdens on applicants, many of whom must now pay $100–$500 per exam again due to delays.
Wider Legal Resistance to Immigration Policies
This lawsuit is part of a growing wave of legal challenges aimed at Trump-era immigration policies, which include executive orders restricting travel, curbing access to health coverage, and raising procedural barriers for lawful immigrants. Plaintiffs argue these measures violate constitutional protections and existing immigration laws.
Attorney Garrett May, also representing the plaintiffs, drew historical parallels in a public statement: “In 1776, the founders declared independence in pursuit of life, liberty, and happiness. Today, these immigrant plaintiffs carry the same banner of freedom in the face of Trump’s unjust policies.”
Federal Response and What’s Next
A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department declined to comment on the ongoing litigation, telling Newsweek, “We do not comment on pending cases, and visa decisions are made individually based on the unique facts of each case.”
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) echoed a strong stance on immigration enforcement via social media, stating on May 5, “Green cards and visas will be revoked if an alien breaks the law,” and emphasizing collaboration with other federal agencies to secure the nation.
The court will now decide whether to compel the State Department to process the plaintiffs’ cases and whether the June proclamation can be revised or suspended to allow for national interest waivers. The outcome could set a precedent for similar lawsuits and reshape the path forward for thousands of lawful immigrants affected by these evolving policies.
Chris Morris is a seasoned journalist and staff writer for The Midtown Times, covering politics, tech, and media with sharp analysis and a steady hand. With over 15 years of experience in the field, Chris has reported on a wide range of topics, from breaking national stories to in-depth profiles of rising political figures. His approach blends accuracy with storytelling, making even the most complex issues accessible. Off the record, Chris is a jazz vinyl collector and a lifelong Mets fan. Follow his reporting for bright, balanced, and timely perspectives from the heart of New York.
