Rep. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) clashed with CNN host John Berman on Tuesday during a heated segment over a federal judge’s decision to block deportation flights—a move made under the Trump administration’s controversial use of the Alien Enemies Act.

Judicial Authority Under Scrutiny

The dispute centers on President Trump’s invocation of the Alien Enemies Act aimed at deporting members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. Hours after the act was invoked, Judge James E. Boasberg—a President Obama appointee—issued a temporary restraining order. This order halted the deportation of five Venezuelans and ordered the aircraft to return to the United States, prompting a fierce reaction from Republican lawmakers.

A Fiery Exchange on CNN

Appearing on CNN’s Outnumbered, Rep. Burchett lashed out, branding the judge as an “activist” and accusing him of “political overreach.” In his most pointed remark, Burchett declared, “I never understand why CNN takes the side of a bunch of murderers that have come into our country illegally.” Berman quickly challenged the lawmaker by asking whether his objection was with the judge’s interpretation of federal law or with an allegedly unlawful Senate confirmation of the judge.

Doubling down, Burchett maintained that the individuals targeted for deportation were criminals and even went so far as to call the influx “an act of war.” He painted a vivid picture: “Imagine if 14 million people swarmed our border at once—that is an act of war. These folks are not playing fair.”

Debating the Balance of Powers

Berman defended the judge’s role, insisting that federal judges have a constitutional responsibility to interpret the law and check executive power. He pressed Burchett on whether the White House has a duty to adhere to such rulings. In response, Burchett argued that the Trump administration’s immigration measures, including actions by border czar Tom Homan, are overwhelmingly supported by Americans and are being unfairly undermined by judicial activism.

Accusing CNN of bias, Burchett said, “You all at CNN continuously take the side of the far left, and that is why your ratings keep plummeting. I just don’t understand why you do that every time.” Berman countered that his questions were asked in a respectful manner and that the judge was simply fulfilling his duty by reviewing the administration’s “novel” use of the Alien Enemies Act.

A Deep Divide Over Immigration and Judicial Oversight

The clash encapsulates the broader national debate over the separation of powers. While Burchett argues that the judge’s decision represents an overstep that hinders necessary immigration enforcement, critics stress that judicial oversight is crucial to prevent executive overreach. As the legal battle over the deportation flights unfolds, the fiery exchange on CNN underscores the deep partisan divisions that continue to shape America’s immigration debate.