In a cutting speech at a judicial conference in Puerto Rico on Friday, May 2, 2025, US Supreme Court Justice, Ketanji Brown Jackson, condemned attacks on the judiciary.
She referenced “the elephant in the room” and rhetoric “designed to intimidate the judiciary.”
Without mentioning Donald Trump by name, Jackson highlighted the growing threats judges face.
The New York Times quoted Jackson as saying, “ Across the nation, judges are facing increased threats of not only physical violence, but also professional retaliation just for doing our jobs.
“And the attacks are not random. They seem designed to intimidate those of us who serve in this critical capacity.”
The justice’s comments are said to be the most direct criticism of the Trump administration by a supreme court justice.
This is dating back to when the US chief justice, John Roberts, rebuked the Trump administration in March for pushing for the impeachment of a federal judge.
Jackson made the remarks at a judicial conference in Puerto Rico.
Federal judges have said the Trump administration has failed to comply with court orders regarding foreign aid, federal spending and the firing of government workers.
The administration disputes that it has defied judges, but has been critical of orders and judges that have blocked its actions.
Judges have also reportedly come under pressure in Trump’s campaign to deport migrants, as in Wisconsin, where a judge was arrested after she allegedly helped an immigrant evade federal authorities.
Local judges have chafed at the idea of arresting migrants in local courthouses, which they say undermines public safety.
“The threats and harassment are attacks on our democracy, on our system of government. And they ultimately risk undermining our constitution and the rule of law,” Jackson said.
“I urge you to keep going, keep doing what is right for our country, and I do believe that history will vindicate your service,” she added.
Context and Concerns
Analysts have said that Jackson’s comments address the increased pressure on judges from the executive branch and the potential consequences for the rule of law.
Her comments reflect concerns about the potential attacks on the Judiciary’s independence and impartiality.
Federal judges have faced criticism and threats for their decisions, particularly in cases involving immigration and government actions.
The Supreme Court’s conservative majority and the current political climate have raised concerns about the potential impact on the judiciary’s independence and impartiality.
