Judges Call to Reduce Rhetoric Against Them

• Judges are calling for a reduction in rhetoric that incites violence against them.
• The number of threats and intimidation directed at judges is increasing.
• Judge Salas calls for accountability and civility from leaders.

A group of federal judges has reached out to U.S. leaders urging them to reduce the rhetoric surrounding the judicial system. This comes in light of an increase in threats against judges and attacks on the judiciary. Speaking at a forum organized by the group Speak Up for Justice, judges shared their personal experiences related to intimidation.

Since the beginning of 2024, Judge Esther Salas reported over 100 incidents referred to as "doxxing" where individuals have targeted judges’ homes, using the name of her son, who was killed five years ago. Salas noted that such attacks have become more frequent following criticism of judges from President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly accused judges of bias.

Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., from Rhode Island, also became a victim of intimidation, receiving threatening voicemails and unsolicited pizza deliveries. During the discussion, judges emphasized that rhetoric that invites violence against them can have serious consequences.

Salas urged politicians to stop the attacks on judges, stressing that this only worsens the situation. She pointed out that attacks on judges are not isolated incidents but are systematic and coordinated. Judges from both political parties express concern about the documented increase in instances of violence.

Judges have called for accountability and civility from leaders to prevent further threats and violence against them.

Tags: USA/Politics