The White House accused judges of “usurping” executive authority on Wednesday following a series of rulings against Donald Trump’s administration. One notable decision blocked the deportation of Venezuelan migrants, which provoked strong criticism from the former president.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt claimed a “far-left effort” was behind the selection of judges acting as “partisan activists” to challenge Trump’s policies. She argued that these judges undermined both the president’s authority and the will of the American people.
Leavitt particularly criticized District Judge James Boasberg, who recently suspended deportation flights conducted under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. Trump labeled Boasberg a “Democrat activist” and called for his impeachment, despite the judge’s Republican background, having been appointed by George W. Bush before later becoming a district court judge under Barack Obama.
In response, Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts issued a rare statement emphasizing that impeachment is not an appropriate reaction to judicial decisions. Boasberg also reminded Justice Department lawyers that the correct legal recourse for disagreements with court rulings is appellate review.
Trump’s administration has faced multiple judicial setbacks, including the blocking of his efforts to end birthright citizenship and the suspension of a Pentagon ban on transgender military service. Additionally, a judge halted the shutdown of the U.S. aid agency overseen by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
As Trump continues his confrontations with the judiciary, critics warn that the administration’s attacks on the courts could escalate tensions and further challenge the balance of powers.
