A federal judge has dismissed a significant lawsuit initiated by the Trump administration against all 15 federal judges in the Maryland district court. On Tuesday, Judge Thomas Cullen, appointed by Trump himself, criticized the administration’s confrontational approach. He stated that the judges enjoyed protection under judicial immunity and that the executive branch did not have standing to bring such claims.
Cullen pointed out the unusual nature of the lawsuit, which accused not just the chief judge responsible for the court’s policy but all other judges as well. He emphasized that it seemed to be an attempt to intimidate the judiciary. “The Executive chose a different…and more confrontational path entirely,” Cullen remarked, indicating that a more appropriate response would have been to address the policy case-by-case.
The court policy at the center of the dispute, a standing order, directs clerks to automatically pause deportation cases involving alleged illegal immigrants for two business days. This measure allows judges time to review cases before any deportation moves forward. Chief Judge George Russell, who issued the standing order, explained that this change was vital to maintain the status quo amid a surge in immigration lawsuits, which had even come in during weekends and holidays.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argued against the policy, stating that it undermines the department’s authority over immigration. According to government attorneys, the court lacks the authority to impose such automatic pauses and that a sense of frustration does not justify disregard for the law.
In his ruling, Cullen further addressed the ongoing conflict between the executive branch and the judiciary. He noted that while tension between these branches is expected, the administration’s attempts to tarnish the reputation of individual judges is both “unprecedented and unfortunate.” This reflects a troubling development in the relationship between the branches of government, especially as district court judges have repeatedly halted key initiatives from the Trump administration concerning immigration, tariffs, and budget cuts.
Cullen’s verdict spans 39 pages and is filled with stern critiques of the administration’s tactics. His comments underscore a broader concern regarding the respect for judicial authority and the implications of executive overreach. The Trump administration has already filed an appeal to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit following this dismissal, indicating that the legal battles over immigration policy will continue.
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