Donald Trump’s recent comments on due process have ignited a firestorm of controversy. The US President expressed doubts about the right to due process, sparking widespread criticism. Trump’s administration has been pushing for the deportation of immigrants accused of being members of a Venezuelan gang without allowing them to plead their case in front of a judge.
During an interview on NBC’s Meet the Press, Trump deviated from Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s affirmation that everyone in the US is entitled to due process. When asked if he agreed with Rubio, Trump responded, “I don’t know. I’m not a lawyer.” This stance contradicts the Fifth Amendment, which guarantees that no person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.
Welker: Do you agree that everyone who is here deserves due process? Citizens and noncitizens?
Trump: I don’t know. I’m not a lawyer.
Welker: The 5th amendment says as much.. Don’t you need to uphold the constitution?
Trump: I don’t know pic.twitter.com/1y8POREX9S
— Acyn (@Acyn) May 4, 2025
Trump’s reluctance to acknowledge the constitutional right to due process stems from his administration’s focus on deportation. He claimed that upholding due process would require millions of trials, saying, “I was elected to get them the hell out of here, and the courts are holding me from doing it.” When questioned about his obligation to uphold the Constitution, Trump again expressed uncertainty, deferring to his lawyers.
Critics argue that Trump’s stance undermines the fundamental principles of the US justice system. The Supreme Court has made several rulings that dictate basic due process rights for immigrants, which the Trump administration has resisted. Many are concerned that Trump’s approach could lead to a disregard for the rule of law and the Constitution.
The public reaction has been overwhelmingly critical, with many taking to social media to express their outrage. One user wrote, “The constitution is not a suggestion.” Another pointed out the inconsistency between Trump’s oath to defend the Constitution and his current stance, saying, “Trump on Jan. 20: ‘I will faithfully execute the Office of President…and will…preserve, protect and defend the Constitution.’ Trump today: ‘I don’t know.'”
This controversy highlights the ongoing debate about immigration and the role of the Constitution in guiding US policy. As Trump’s administration continues to push for stricter immigration laws, the question of due process remains a contentious issue ¹.
