1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

The Constitution established a system of checks and balances among the three branches of government to prevent any one branch from accumulating too much power. The executive branch's decision to deport hundreds of Venezuelans to El Salvador despite a federal judge's order halting such deportations raises serious constitutional concerns. Defying a court order undermines the rule of law and the separation of powers that are fundamental principles of American democracy. It is imperative that all actions by the executive branch respect and adhere to judicial rulings. Ignoring court orders erodes public trust in our institutions and the system of checks and balances designed to protect individual rights and liberties. A robust democracy depends on all branches of government operating within their constitutionally defined roles and respecting the authority of the others. Upholding the judiciary's independence and complying with its legally binding orders is essential to preserving the integrity of our constitutional republic.