Chief Justice Roberts responds to Trump's call for judge's impeachment

Chief Justice John Roberts has issued a rare public statement in response to President Donald Trump's call for the impeachment of U.S. District Judge James Boasberg. The judge had recently ruled against the Trump administration in a case involving deportations under the Alien Enemies Act of 1798.

Roberts emphasized that "impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision," and highlighted the role of the appellate review process in addressing such disputes.

Bradley Joondeph, a professor at Santa Clara University School of Law, remarked on the unusual nature of Roberts' public intervention. He noted that it is rare for a chief justice to publicly challenge another branch of government outside their judicial capacity. Joondeph described this as "a remarkable moment" in constitutional history.

The controversy began after Judge Boasberg blocked plans by the Trump administration to deport individuals allegedly linked to a Venezuelan gang. This action was criticized by the Catholic Legal Immigration Network Inc., which raised concerns about due process.

In reaction to Boasberg's ruling, Trump called for his impeachment via his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump labeled Boasberg as "a troublemaker and agitator" and questioned his appointment by former President Barack Obama.

Roberts' statement marks one of his most direct criticisms of Trump since 2018 when he defended federal judges from similar attacks by the president. At that time, Roberts stated, "We do not have Obama judges or Trump judges, Bush judges or Clinton judges."

The ongoing legal dispute over the Alien Enemies Act could potentially reach the Supreme Court. Joondeph suggested that Roberts might be preemptively addressing this issue before it arrives at the court.

Joondeph expressed concern about how Trump's administration has engaged with the judiciary, stating there is no precedent for such actions in recent history.

Kate Scanlon reports on national issues for OSV News from Washington. Follow her updates on X @kgscanlon.