Columbia Standard

In a recent address on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin criticized what he described as ongoing attempts by the Trump Administration to intimidate judges and undermine judicial independence. Durbin proposed a resolution reaffirming that judicial power resides with federal courts and that the executive branch must adhere to court rulings. This resolution faced objection from U.S. Senator Chuck Grassley.

Durbin expressed concern over repeated attacks on the judiciary by President Trump and his allies, noting, "These attacks are not only wrong, but dangerous—and pose a serious threat to our constitutional order." He referenced Trump's call for impeaching a federal judge who ruled against his administration and noted that Elon Musk has also demanded such actions multiple times.

Chief Justice John Roberts issued a statement in response, emphasizing that impeachment is not an appropriate response to judicial decisions. "The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose," Roberts stated.

Durbin warned of the potential constitutional crisis these actions could provoke: "We must respond to the dangerous attacks on our courts and judges now."

Addressing claims of bias against Trump due to numerous injunctions against his administration, Durbin suggested these reflect violations of law by Trump rather than judicial prejudice.

He also defended Judge Boasberg against accusations from Trump's supporters, stating, "Judge Boasberg is no partisan...he was appointed by a Republican President: George W. Bush."

Durbin concluded with concerns about increased threats against judges due to political rhetoric, urging bipartisan efforts to protect judicial independence: "Violence or threats of violence...are never—never—acceptable."

The resolution supporting the rule of law is backed by several Democratic Senators including Chris Coons, Richard Blumenthal, Amy Klobuchar, Sheldon Whitehouse, and others.