The White House responded sharply Friday night to a Seattle federal judge's order that temporarily halts enforcement of an executive order suspending immigration from seven predominantly Muslim countries and blocking the entry of any new refugees for at least 120 days. "At the earliest possible time, the Department of Justice intends to file an emergency stay of this outrageous order and defend the executive order of the president, which we believe is lawful and appropriate," the White House said in a statement. Later, the word "outrageous" was removed in a revised statement that was sent out. "The President’s order is intended to protect the homeland and he has the constitutional authority and responsibility to protect the American people," the statement continued. Civil rights groups have also challenged the president's targeting of specific nationalities.

Source: Los Angeles Times February 04, 2017 05:12 UTC