Fact Check: "Kennedy calls for protection of judges and their families amid rising threats."
What We Know
The claim regarding Justice Anthony Kennedy's call for the protection of judges and their families arises from a broader context of increasing threats against the judiciary in the United States. Reports indicate that threats against judges have reached historic levels, prompting discussions about judicial security. A recent internal memo from the federal judiciary announced the formation of the Judicial Security and Independence Task Force, which aims to address these threats and enhance the security of judges and their families (source-3).
Additionally, there have been legislative efforts to strengthen the security of judges. Congressional Democrats introduced a bill to transfer control of the U.S. Marshals Service from the executive branch to the federal judiciary, which would help insulate judges from political pressures and enhance their security (source-4).
Furthermore, retired Justice Kennedy has publicly warned about the risks to freedom and democracy, emphasizing the need for protective measures for judges amidst a hostile political climate (source-1).
Analysis
The claim that Kennedy has called for the protection of judges and their families is partially true. While Kennedy has indeed expressed concerns about the threats faced by judges, there is no direct evidence of him making a specific call to action for protective measures in the context of the current threats. His warnings are more about the general state of political discourse and its implications for judicial independence and safety (source-7).
The establishment of the Judicial Security and Independence Task Force is a significant step taken by the judiciary itself to address the rising threats, indicating a proactive approach to enhancing security for judges (source-3). The legislative efforts by Democrats to shift control of the U.S. Marshals Service also reflect a growing recognition of the need for improved security measures for judges (source-4).
However, it is important to note that while Kennedy's remarks align with the concerns raised by the judiciary, they do not constitute a formal call for action specific to the protection of judges and their families. This distinction is crucial in evaluating the accuracy of the claim.
Conclusion
The verdict on the claim is Partially True. While there is a clear acknowledgment of the threats against judges and a broader discussion on the need for their protection, Justice Kennedy's statements do not explicitly call for protective measures. Instead, they highlight the concerning climate surrounding the judiciary, which is being addressed through institutional actions and legislative proposals.
Sources
- Retired US Supreme Court Justice Kennedy warns 'freedom is at risk'
- US judges warn of threats, ask Congress for more security
- Federal Judiciary Creates New Task Force With Threats
- Democrats' bill would move U.S. Marshals out of executive
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- Former Supreme Court justice warns freedom and democracy at risk
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