LOS ANGELES: A US federal judge on Friday ordered a temporary, nationwide halt to President Donald Trump's ban on travelers from seven Muslim-majority countries, in the most severe legal blow to the controversial measure.
The restraining order issued by Seattle US District Judge James Robart is valid nationwide pending a full review of a complaint filed by Washington state Attorney General Bob Ferguson.
"The constitution prevailed today," Ferguson said, describing the judge's decision as historic. "No one is above the law -- not even the president."
"I said from the beginning it is not the loudest voice that prevails in a courtroom, it's the constitution," he added, pointing out that Robart was appointed by Republican president George W. Bush.
But the White House quickly hit back, making it clear it was ready for a drawn-out battle on the issue. It initially denounced the decision as "outrageous" but later removed the word from its statement.
"At the earliest possible time, the Department of Justice intends to file (for) an emergency stay of this order and defend the executive order of the president, which we believe is lawful and appropriate," a statement said.
"The president's order is intended to protect the homeland and he has the constitutional authority and responsibility to protect the American people."
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