Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson criticizes Trump's attacks on judges as intimidation

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson delivered a pointed critique of former President Donald Trump and his allies for their escalating attacks on judges who have ruled against government actions, characterizing the rhetoric and threats as deliberate attempts to intimidate the judiciary. Speaking at a judicial conference in Puerto Rico, Jackson warned that these attacks—ranging from verbal disparagement to calls for impeachment—pose risks to democracy, the rule of law, and judicial independence. She emphasized the growing threats of both physical violence and professional retaliation faced by judges, describing the situation as a test of courage and urging her colleagues to remain steadfast. Jackson's statements align with previous concerns raised by Chief Justice John Roberts and other federal judges, who have also condemned attempts to undermine judicial authority and bypass established appellate processes. The criticism comes amid a backdrop of contentious legal battles over executive orders and immigration policy, with judges frequently issuing rulings that curb Trump administration initiatives. Jackson called on the judiciary to persevere, expressing confidence that history would vindicate their commitment to upholding the law.