Columbia Standard

U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin, serving as the ranking member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, provided his remarks during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing titled "Rule by District Judges II: Exploring Legislative Solutions to the Bipartisan Problem of Universal Injunctions." In his address, Durbin discussed concerns over the actions of the President and his allies, particularly pointing out the threats against federal judges and viewing them as a potential risk to judicial independence and the constitutional framework.

Durbin expressed his concerns about demands for the impeachment of federal judges by "President Trump and Co-President Elon Musk," stating that such actions have been supported by House Republicans. Durbin noted, "Articles of impeachment against six judges and counting" have been filed.

He reiterated his longstanding position against any form of violence or threats, regardless of the political orientation. Durbin recalled his time as chair of the committee, "When I was chair of this Committee, I repeatedly condemned threats against Republican-appointed justices and judges, and we passed bipartisan legislation to improve security for the bench."

While the hearing's focus was on nationwide injunctions, Durbin linked the discussions to President Trump's approach to the rule of law. He pointed out "the number of injunctions issued against this President compared to other presidents" and noted that over 100 executive orders have been issued by President Trump, a record number for his term.

Durbin cited the example of "the President’s executive order to end birthright citizenship," which has faced legal challenges from federal judges, including those appointed by Republican presidents. He emphasized the need for any legislation on nationwide injunctions to be founded on fairness and not be politically motivated.

Thomas Paine's words from 1776 were invoked by Durbin to reinforce the guiding principle that "in America the law is king." He asserted that, "The president is not a king—not even this President, as much as he might wish otherwise. He is bound by the decisions of our courts, just like every other American."

Durbin concluded by emphasizing the unacceptability of threats or intimidation towards judges and underscored the importance of safeguarding the Constitution and the separation of powers against any threats.

###