The Megyn Kelly Show: Trump vs. Judge on Alien Enemies Act Escalates, Biden Autopen Questions, Putin Call
Release Date: March 18, 2025
Host: Megyn Kelly
Platform: SiriusXM
1. Trump Administration's Deportation of Trenda Aragua Gang Members
The episode opens with a heated discussion surrounding the Trump administration's decision to deport over 100 members of the Trenda Aragua gang from Venezuela under the controversial Alien Enemies Act of 1798. This action defies a court order by District Court Judge James Boasberg, who had mandated the return of these individuals to the United States.
Megyn Kelly introduces the topic, highlighting the administration's stance against the judge's directive:
“The Trump administration doubling down on deporting more than 100 Trenda Iragua gang members from Venezuela in spite of a judge's order demanding their return to the United States.” (00:17)
Judge James Boasberg had previously ordered a two-week pause on the deportations, asserting that any planes already en route must turn back. Despite Supreme Court precedent that limits judicial review over the Alien Enemies Act, Judge Boasberg challenged the administration's actions, prompting a robust response from the Trump team.
Key Perspectives:
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Stephen Miller, Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, vehemently criticizes the judicial intervention in foreign policy:
“If a district court judge can be involved in the conduct of our foreign policy, under no definition do we have a democracy in this country.” (03:21) -
Tom Homan, the Border Czar, responds to the backlash, asserting compliance with the judge's order:
“We did comply with his written order on five aliens that he didn’t want deported.” (03:39) -
DOJ Lawyer elaborates on the criminal activities of the deportees, emphasizing the severity of their offenses:
“They led a multi-state sex trafficking operation involving smuggling women into the United States, holding them in stash houses...” (04:15) -
Jasmine Crockett, a Democrat Congressman, voices concerns over potential racial profiling and the antiquated nature of the Alien Enemies Act:
“Of Trend Aragua deported without evidence, without a hearing.” (05:02)
“The Alien Enemies act is antiquated. The government has other ways of deporting terrorist gang members.” (05:11)
The administration defends its use of the Alien Enemies Act, arguing that it is a necessary tool in combating terrorism. However, critics argue that its application poses risks of wrongful targeting and undermines established legal processes.
2. Biden Administration's Use of Auto Pen for Pardons Under Scrutiny
A significant portion of the episode delves into the controversy surrounding President Biden's use of an auto pen to sign last-minute pardons. President Trump publicly declared these pardons null and void, questioning their legality and Biden's involvement.
Megyn Kelly sets the stage for this controversy:
“President Trump announcing President Biden's last minute pardons signed by auto pen are null and void. Is that legal?” (00:34)
President Trump challenges the legitimacy of the auto pen-signed pardons:
“Joe Biden did not sign them, but more importantly, he did not know anything about them... using an auto pen to sign off and to give pardons is disgraceful.” (08:25)
“Did he know what he was doing? Did he authorize it?” (08:25)
Megyn Kelly references the New York Post report highlighting suspected abuse of auto pen privileges by Biden White House staffers:
“A staffer telling the Post, quote, everyone was suspicious of this individual exceeding their authority when claiming to speak for the President.” (09:01)
The use of auto pens has a historical precedent but remains controversial, especially when used for significant actions like issuing pardons. The episode explores the potential legal disputes arising from these practices and the implications for presidential authority.
3. Upcoming Trump-Putin Call on Ukraine Ceasefire Negotiations
The episode covers the anticipated discussion between Presidents Trump and Putin aimed at securing a ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The negotiations include potential concessions from Russia and strategic considerations for both nations.
Megyn Kelly reports on Trump's approach to the negotiations:
“President Trump more open to discussing some concessions that will have to come from the Russians.” (10:59)
President Trump outlines potential negotiation points:
“We'll be talking about land, power plants... dividing up certain assets.” (11:15)
Russian Objectives and U.S. Proposals:
- President Putin is reportedly seeking guarantees that Ukraine will not join NATO, a demand Trump has consistently opposed.
- The discussions also touch on the deployment of peacekeeping forces, with Trump considering French and British troops coupled with U.S. economic investments in Ukraine as a deterrent against further aggression.
Caroline Levitt, White House Press Secretary, describes the negotiations as being "on the 10 yard line," indicating they're nearing a critical phase.
Additionally, the episode highlights Trump's firm stance against the Houthi rebel group in Yemen, emphasizing strategic military actions to secure vital shipping lanes in the Red Sea.
Donald Trump comments on the offensive against the Houthis:
“Shooting at your ships, we'll stop shooting.” (14:02)
Stephen Miller adds:
“At your drones, this campaign will end. But until then, it will be unrelenting.” (14:03)
The offensive aims to restore freedom of navigation and deter further attacks, crucial for global trade and security.
4. Senator Chuck Schumer Cancels Book Tour Amid Security Concerns
The episode concludes with coverage of Senator Chuck Schumer's decision to cancel his planned book tour due to security threats and anticipated protests from progressive groups.
Megyn Kelly introduces the issue:
“Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer cancels a book tour citing security concerns amid reports of progressive groups planning protests.” (10:59)
Details Include:
- Scheduled stops in Baltimore, Washington, New York City, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles were postponed.
- Indivisible, a progressive group, and members of the Sunrise Movement were identified as potential protestors, with instances of arrests and petitions urging Democratic boycotts against Schumer.
An unnamed Democratic Congressman criticizes Schumer's leadership:
“Mr. Schumer has been effectively impotent as minority leader, offering no comprehensive plan or strategy...” (05:19)
The episode discusses the internal fallout within the Democratic Party, highlighting resignations and growing frustration among party ranks regarding Schumer's effectiveness and leadership.
Conclusion
Megyn Kelly wraps up the episode by reiterating the major topics discussed:
- The escalating conflict between the Trump administration and the judiciary over the Alien Enemies Act.
- Legal and ethical questions surrounding President Biden's use of an auto pen for pardons.
- High-stakes diplomatic negotiations between Presidents Trump and Putin aimed at resolving the Ukraine conflict.
- Internal challenges within the Democratic Party as evidenced by Senator Schumer's canceled book tour and rising dissent.
This comprehensive analysis provides listeners with an in-depth understanding of the political tensions and significant events shaping the current landscape.
Note: Advertisements and non-content segments from the episode were excluded as per request.
