The American Bar Association (ABA) has strongly condemned recent attacks on federal judges by Trump administration officials, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing battle between the White House and the judiciary. In a statement issued on Monday, the ABA criticized what it deemed “inappropriate” efforts to undermine the independence of the judiciary. The White House, in turn, dismissed the ABA as a “snooty” organization of “leftist lawyers.”
The exchange comes as the Trump administration’s agenda faces increasing resistance from federal courts, particularly over issues like budget cuts and workforce reductions. The President has made no secret of his frustration with the judiciary, which he accuses of obstructing his policy goals. Meanwhile, the ABA has consistently called for judicial independence, emphasizing that judges must be free from political influence and public opinion.
ABA President William Bay expressed the organization’s unwavering stance, stating, “We will not remain silent as efforts to reshape the legal profession threaten to punish those who disagree with the government. The rule of law must prevail, and judges must remain free to interpret the law based on their oaths, not public sentiment.”
This statement follows a warning from the ABA issued earlier this year, highlighting the risks posed by the Trump administration’s “chaotic” approach to the rule of law. The ABA’s concerns stem from the actions of federal judges who have ruled against key initiatives from the Trump administration, including proposals to reduce federal spending and dismantle diversity programs. These decisions have drawn sharp criticism from Trump officials, including Vice President JD Vance and Elon Musk, the head of the Department of Government Efficiency.
On social media, Musk even proposed a controversial idea to fire the “worst 1%” of appointed judges annually, calling for accountability in the judiciary. Some conservative lawmakers in the House have also attempted to impeach federal judges who have ruled against the administration’s efforts, adding further fuel to the fire.
President Trump himself has been vocal in his criticism of judges, labeling them “activists” and accusing them of political bias. In response, the ABA has reiterated its defense of the judiciary, urging that judges are bound by their oaths to uphold the law, not to cater to political agendas or public opinion.
Bay’s statement also addressed Trump’s recent decision to suspend security clearances for lawyers at Covington & Burling, the firm representing Special Counsel Jack Smith. The ABA president expressed concern over these actions, arguing that they undermine the integrity of the legal profession and pose a threat to judicial independence.
The ABA’s message is clear: If lawyers and legal professionals do not stand up for the judiciary, who will? “Who will protect the integrity of the justice system?” the organization asks. “Who will defend the rule of law?” The ABA continues to call for respect for the judiciary and for the protection of the legal profession from political pressure.
Read more: