Chief Justice Roberts Warns Against Political Attacks Amid Rising Threats to Judges

Chief Justice John Roberts addressed growing concerns about the politicization of the judiciary and the resulting threats of violence against judges during a judicial conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. Speaking a day after the Supreme Court issued major rulings, including a significant victory for President Trump limiting nationwide injunctions, Roberts urged political leaders on both sides to reduce incendiary rhetoric around judges, emphasizing that judges are simply interpreting the law and not responsible for outcomes that may displease some. He highlighted that criticism often stems from losing parties venting frustration rather than substantive legal disagreement and stressed the importance of judicial independence and adherence to legal principles over political pressures. Roberts recounted past instances where he publicly rebuked inflammatory comments from political figures, including President Trump and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, to protect the judiciary’s integrity and prevent dangerous backlash. While he refrained from discussing specific cases, Roberts underscored the dangers posed by framing judges as part of political conflicts, warning that such narratives can incite threats or violence. His remarks reflect a call for cooler political discourse to preserve the rule of law and safeguard judicial officers from harm.