Chief Justice Declares Impeaching Judges ‘Inappropriate’ Amid Trump Dispute

Chief Justice John Roberts defended the judiciary after President Trump attacked Judge James Boasberg for blocking the use of the Alien Enemies Act to detain noncitizens. Roberts stated, “impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement” with judicial decisions, emphasizing the two-century norm of respecting judicial independence. Trump’s comments targeted Boasberg—an Obama appointee—calling him a “Radical Left Lunatic” and demanding impeachment. This rhetoric reflects a growing trend among some Republicans to challenge judicial rulings they oppose. Legal experts, including two Republican-appointed judges, warn these attacks undermine judicial independence, essential for democracy. Roberts has previously asserted there are no partisan judges, highlighting the judiciary’s critical role in upholding the law.