House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is escalating pressure on federal judges who have been accused of stalling President Donald Trump’s immigration efforts. Johnson is highlighting Congress’ constitutional role in shaping and funding the federal judiciary, as the administration accuses courts of operating with political bias.
Johnson warned that lawmakers have authority to make sweeping changes to the judicial system. “We do have authority over the federal courts, as you know. We can eliminate an entire district court. We have power, funding over the courts and all these other things,” he said. “Desperate times call for desperate measures and Congress is going to act.”
Yes, Congress has the power to remove a district judge through impeachment. According to the U.S. Constitution, federal judges hold their positions during good behavior (Article III, Section 1), meaning they serve for life unless removed through impeachment. pic.twitter.com/tHW09FABp3
— M.A.G.A. (FINEST) (@NicholasFl90896) March 26, 2025
The standoff is largely focused on whether Trump has exclusive authority over deportation policy under Article II and the Alien Enemies Act. Republicans argue that recent court rulings amount to an unauthorized override of the president’s constitutional duties.
Although Johnson has not supported the push for impeachment of federal judges, some Republicans have publicly advocated for that option. They claim that certain judges have gone beyond their legal role and are acting like political activists.
Johnson’s remarks came as some in the administration called for stronger action. These officials want to see Congress challenge the judiciary directly through measures like budget cuts or district restructuring.
Elon Musk has also voiced support for removing judges who he says are blocking Trump’s agenda for partisan reasons. Musk and other conservatives argue that the courts have been turned into political weapons rather than impartial arbiters.
The administration sees the courts as engaging in lawfare — using the legal process to tie up executive actions with constant challenges. Some of Trump’s allies in the House are preparing proposals to limit court jurisdiction over certain policy areas.
