Fact Check: Roberts Rejects Calls for Impeaching Judges After Trump's Demands
What We Know
On March 18, 2025, Chief Justice John Roberts publicly rejected calls for the impeachment of federal judges, shortly after President Donald Trump demanded the removal of Judge James E. Boasberg. Boasberg had issued a ruling blocking deportation flights for alleged members of a Venezuelan gang, which Trump criticized as an overreach of judicial authority. In his statement, Roberts emphasized that "for more than two centuries, it has been established that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision" and noted that the appellate review process exists for such disagreements (AP News, New York Times).
Roberts' statement came in the context of escalating tensions between the executive and judicial branches, particularly as Trump has frequently criticized judges who have ruled against his policies. The Chief Justice's remarks serve as a defense of judicial independence, reiterating that the proper response to judicial rulings one disagrees with is to pursue an appeal, not impeachment (Reuters, Politico).
Analysis
The claim that "Roberts rejects calls for impeaching judges after Trump's demands" is substantiated by multiple reputable sources. Chief Justice Roberts' statement was a direct response to Trump's social media post, where he labeled Judge Boasberg a "troublemaker" and called for his impeachment. This context is crucial as it highlights the ongoing conflict between Trump and the judiciary, particularly regarding Trump's immigration policies (AP News, New York Times).
Roberts' assertion that impeachment should not be used as a tool for political disagreement with judicial decisions is consistent with historical precedent. Impeachment of judges is exceedingly rare and typically reserved for serious ethical or criminal misconduct. As noted, only 15 judges have been impeached in U.S. history, with just eight removed from office (Reuters, Politico).
The sources used in this fact-check are credible and come from established news organizations, which enhances their reliability. The Associated Press, New York Times, Reuters, and Politico are known for their journalistic standards and fact-checking processes, making them trustworthy references for this analysis.
Conclusion
The claim that "Roberts rejects calls for impeaching judges after Trump's demands" is True. Chief Justice John Roberts did indeed issue a statement rejecting the notion that impeachment is an appropriate response to judicial decisions, specifically in the context of President Trump's recent demands regarding Judge Boasberg. This reflects a broader principle of judicial independence and the proper channels for addressing disagreements with court rulings.
