Washington, D.C. – A federal judge appointed by a Republican president condemned Donald Trump’s social media attacks against the judge presiding over the former president’s hush money trial in Manhattan. The judge, Reggie B. Walton, called these attacks on the rule of law “troubling” and warned that they could incite violence and threaten democracy. In a live interview with CNN, Judge Walton emphasized the importance of protecting judges and their families from threats.
The judge’s public statement came after Trump criticized New York Supreme Court Justice Juan Merchan and his daughter, Loren Merchan, falsely attributing a social media post showing Trump behind bars to her. Judge Walton, who was appointed by both Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, expressed concern over the impact of Trump’s rhetoric on his followers, recalling a tragic incident where the son of a federal judge was killed.
According to the U.S. Marshals Service, threats against federal judges have more than doubled since late 2020, coinciding with Trump’s escalating attacks on the judiciary. Many federal judges, particularly those handling cases related to the January 6 attack on the Capitol, have experienced a surge in threats and harassment. Trump’s election obstruction trial judge, Tanya S. Chutkan, is currently under 24-hour protection.
Judge Walton emphasized the importance of maintaining the rule of law by having independent judicial officers who can uphold and enforce laws without fear or bias. He expressed his concerns for the future of the country and democracy if the court system is hindered by threats and intimidation.
Other federal judges in Washington appointed by Republican presidents have also spoken out against Trump’s disregard for the facts and his inflammatory language. These judges have warned about the dangerous rewriting of reality and the increase in threats they have personally faced. The Capitol attack has further escalated the threats against judges and other public officials, prompting increased security measures.
Despite facing multiple legal challenges and criminal cases, Trump has persistently claimed to be a victim of political persecution. His arguments have been rejected by numerous courts and officials from his own administration. Judges who have presided over cases related to the Capitol attack have unequivocally stated that the actions of the rioters were not patriotic but a threat to the American constitutional order.
In conclusion, the public denouncement by Judge Reggie B. Walton highlights the concern among federal judges about the impact of Trump’s rhetoric on the judiciary and the rule of law. The increase in threats and attacks on judges underscores the need to protect the independence of the judicial system and uphold the principles of democracy.