They Denied ICE Abused Power. Then They Appealed the Judge's Order. - Decoding The Rhetoric

[Rhiannon12866]

A federal judge just handed ICE a major loss, and the Trump administration immediately exposed its own lie.

On Friday, U.S. District Judge Katherine Menendez issued a sweeping injunction blocking ICE from tear gassing peaceful protesters, arresting people for observing operations, stopping vehicles without cause, or retaliating against those documenting federal actions. The ruling followed an ACLU lawsuit that proved a pattern of First and Fourth Amendment violations.

On Sunday, DHS Secretary Kristi Noem went on national television and claimed the ruling changed nothing because ICE was already following these rules.

On Monday, the Department of Justice appealed the order.

That contradiction tells you everything.

If ICE was already complying, there would be no reason to appeal. Instead, the appeal reveals what the administration actually wants: the freedom to tear gas peaceful protesters, arrest observers, and stop vehicles without reasonable suspicion.

This video breaks down the judge’s ruling, the evidence behind it, Noem’s public claims, and why the DOJ appeal exposes the truth about ICE tactics and constitutional rights.

This is an ACLU victory worth celebrating and a fight that is far from over. - 01/20/2026.

[SunSeeker]

1. K & R

[FBaggins]

2. It actually isn't a contradiction at all

Judges generally can’t make advisory rulings. But sneaking one in like this has an advantage. Without it, citizens would have to sue for violations of rights if ICE did something that the court has now forbidden them to do… but now this judge can hold them in contempt for the same actions without the need for a trial.