Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court John G. Roberts issued a rare and pointed statement on Tuesday, condemning President Donald J. Trump and his allies for urging the impeachment of federal judges who have ruled against the administration. The latest flashpoint involves District Judge James E. Boasberg, who recently blocked the Trump Administration’s attempt to transfer approximately 200 criminal illegal migrants to prisons in El Salvador. Trump’s supporters labeled the decision as judicial overreach, prompting calls for Boasberg’s removal—an action Roberts swiftly denounced as inappropriate.

“For more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision,” Roberts declared. “The normal appellate review process exists for that purpose.” His statement reaffirmed the judiciary’s role as an independent branch, insulated from political retaliation. Roberts went further, rejecting partisan characterizations of the bench: “We do not have Obama judges or Trump judges, Bush judges or Clinton judges. What we have is an extraordinary group of dedicated judges doing their level best to do equal right to those appearing before them.”

The Chief Justice’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between the Trump Administration and the judiciary, with several rulings challenging executive policies. Roberts hailed the independent judiciary as a cornerstone of American democracy, urging gratitude for its impartiality. Legal scholars see this as a historic defense of judicial integrity, while Trump allies argue it shields unaccountable judges. As debates intensify, Roberts’ words underscore a critical moment for the separation of powers.