AUSTIN, Texas -- Texas has become the first state to throw its support behind President Donald Trump's controversial immigration order.
Attorney General Ken Paxton filed a friend of the court brief today with the US 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, saying the order is "lawful" and protects the American people.
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Paxton wrote he supports the U.S. Justice Department's decision last month to implement a temporary travel ban for citizens from seven Muslim-majority countries.
Key provisions of the travel ban were blocked by a federal judge in Washington State earlier this month.
The ruling was upheld by a three judge panel in California's 9th Circuit last week. The Trump Administration has requested that appeals court consider rehearing the case with a larger panel of judges.
To view the brief, click here.