A divided D.C. Circuit ruled that Chief Judge James Boasberg must end his criminal contempt investigation into the Trump administration over March 2025 deportation flights that sent Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador.

White House and Trump supporters criticized Boasberg; plaintiffs’ attorney Lee Gelernt called the decision a blow to the rule of law and said the plaintiffs will seek full-court review.

The case sits within broader partisan debates over deportation tactics, with prior critiques of Boasberg including misconduct complaints and public rebukes from Supreme Court Chief Justice Roberts.

The ruling notes that further judicial investigation harms cannot be remedied by later appeals, signaling deference to presidential and national security concerns.

The panel featured Trump appointees Rao and Walker concurring, with Biden appointee Childs dissenting, highlighting political dynamics in the court.”

The decision split: Walker joined Rao in the majority while Childs dissented, criticizing the majority for limiting Boasberg’s authority.

The ruling rejected testifying or hearings involving executive branch witnesses and discussions about internal deliberations tied to national security and ongoing diplomatic matters.

The majority, including Judge Neomi Rao, found the district court lacked clarity to support criminal contempt and that pursuing such proceedings would intrude on executive branch prerogatives.

They held Boasberg abused his discretion because the underlying order did not clearly and specifically prohibit transferring migrants into Salvadoran custody.

Administration officials argued Boasberg acted biased and overstepped authority, while Boasberg maintained the administration had ample opportunity to comply or explain actions.

The majority, authored by Rao and Walker, said Boasberg already had sufficient information and that further judicial scrutiny would intrude on Executive Branch decision-making on national security.

The ruling reflects a dispute over whether Boasberg overstepped by ordering planes to turn back, with Trump supporters criticizing Boasberg and DOJ facing misconduct complaints tied to public remarks.