Can judges be impeached for their rulings? Chief Justice John Roberts says no amid Trump’s call for removal
Chief Justice John Roberts pushed back against calls to impeach federal judges over their decisions, emphasizing the importance of judicial independence. His remarks come amid increasing political pressure on judges following controversial rulings on immigration and other hot-button issues.
Why did Chief Justice Roberts speak out on judicial impeachment?
Chief Justice Roberts issued a pointed statement on March 18, 2025, addressing growing calls to remove judges based on their rulings. «For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision. The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose,» he said.
His comments appear to be a direct response to former President Donald Trump’s call to impeach U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg. The judge recently issued an order blocking the deportation of certain Venezuelan migrants under a rarely used law—the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, calling Boasberg a «Radical Left Lunatic» and demanding his removal.
Has impeachment been used against judges in the past?
Historically, impeachment has been reserved for serious offenses, such as ethical violations, corruption, or criminal conduct. The U.S. Constitution allows impeachment for «high crimes and misdemeanors,» but not simply for issuing controversial rulings.
Since 1803, only 15 federal judges have been impeached, and just eight have been convicted and removed by the Senate. A notable case occurred in 1804 when Supreme Court Justice Samuel Chase faced impeachment after President Thomas Jefferson pushed for his removal due to his political biases. The Senate ultimately