1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

The judicial branch is a crucial check on the power of the executive, enshrined in our constitution's system of checks and balances. Recent actions by the administration, specifically illegal deportations, flagrantly defy court orders, threatening the rule of law and our democratic system itself. The Trump administration is ignoring due process and in some cases, like that of Dr. Alawieh who was here legally filling a vital shortage of American doctors in her specialty. It is also using war time acts during peace time, which feels very much like "just making stuff up". We cannot allow the executive branch to disregard judicial rulings with impunity. As a co-equal branch of government, the courts must be respected and their judgments upheld. Failing to do so sets a dangerous precedent that undermines our nation's foundation of justice and democracy. The administration prides itself on being the party of law and order - it is imperative they lead by example and comply with court decisions, even ones they may disagree with. Continuing down this path brings us perilously close to a constitutional crisis that could inflict lasting damage on our institutions and society. I urge immediate measures to compel the administration's adherence to judicial orders and reaffirm our commitment to checks and balances.