Sotomayor Defends Judicial Independence Amid Trump Criticism

During remarks at Georgetown University, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor emphasized the need for a fearlessly independent judiciary in light of recent criticisms from President Trump and his allies. Without naming Trump, she expressed concern over the erosion of judicial norms that uphold the rule of law, stating that the changing standards threaten the foundation of legal principles. Sotomayor criticized the calls for impeachment of judges who rule against the Trump administration, highlighting the responsibility of law schools to better educate about the importance of the rule of law. She warned that arbitrary power could lead to unfairness, impacting everyone, and urged citizens to hold public representatives accountable. The comments come as the Trump administration faces multiple legal challenges and appeals in the Supreme Court related to its policies. Chief Justice John Roberts previously rebuked Trump for his remarks about judges, reinforcing the necessity of respecting judicial independence.