Former President Donald Trump has once again taken aim at a federal judge, specifically targeting U.S. District Judge James Boasberg of the Washington, D.C. circuit. This comes in response to Boasberg's recent ruling that halted deportation flights of alleged gang members under the Alien Enemies Act. In a post on Truth Social early Wednesday morning, Trump expressed his frustrations, stating, “If a President doesn’t have the right to throw murderers and other criminals out of our Country because a Radical Left Lunatic Judge wants to assume the role of President, then our Country is in very big trouble and destined to fail!”
Trump's comments were triggered by Judge Boasberg's order issued on Saturday, which stopped deportation flights that were already en route. This ruling has sparked significant debate regarding the authority of the judiciary versus the executive branch. Trump also called for Boasberg's impeachment during a Fox News interview, stating, “Many people have called for his impeachment, the impeachment of this judge. I don't know who the judge is, but he's radical left.” He pointed out that Boasberg was appointed by former President Barack Obama and criticized the judge for suggesting that the government should not remove individuals described as “the worst people, gang members, gang leaders” from the country.
In light of Trump's impeachment call, Chief Justice John Roberts issued an unusual statement addressing the matter. He emphasized that for more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to judicial disagreements. Roberts reiterated that the normal appellate review process exists for resolving such issues, indicating a commitment to judicial independence and the checks and balances within the U.S. government.
Roberts also highlighted the process of impeachment, stating that Congress can impeach a judge if a simple majority is achieved in the House of Representatives. If the articles of impeachment are approved by the House, the Senate would then hold a trial, requiring a two-thirds majority vote to convict a judge. While it is rare, there have been instances where members of Congress have filed articles of impeachment against judges.
In response to Chief Justice Roberts' criticism, Trump appeared unfazed, remarking, “He didn't mention my name in the statement. I just saw it quickly. He didn't mention my name.” This back-and-forth highlights the ongoing tensions between the judiciary and the executive branch, as well as the broader implications for immigration policy and judicial authority in the United States.
