Johnson Asserts Congressional Power As Judges Face Scrutiny Over Lawfare Attacks
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is turning up the heat on federal judges accused of blocking President Donald Trump’s ability to enforce immigration laws. Johnson is reminding Americans that Congress was designed to be a check on the judiciary and has tools it can use to respond.
His comments come as several courts have slowed or stopped key immigration initiatives. In response, Johnson said, “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.”
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 26, 2025
The White House and its allies argue that certain judges are acting with political intent, not legal neutrality. They claim that decisions halting deportation orders represent a misuse of judicial power.
This makes me so happy pic.twitter.com/xKOXP11C6d
— The Blue State Refugee (@TheMigrantKing) March 26, 2025
Republicans have pointed to the Alien Enemies Act as support for the president’s authority, saying it clearly gives the executive branch power to act in areas related to immigration and national security. The broader issue, they say, is judges encroaching on executive responsibilities.
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
While calls for impeachment have been made by some, including Elon Musk, Johnson has focused on alternative strategies. Controlling court funding and district structure has emerged as one of the more likely paths for Congress to assert itself.
Some Republicans in the House are also exploring legislation that would limit jurisdiction in specific policy areas. These discussions are part of a growing pushback against what is being described as lawfare used to derail the administration’s priorities.
Article III, Section 1 of the Constitution says that judges hold their offices during good behavior.
Abusing judicial authority for political gain should result in their impeachment. pic.twitter.com/xQ1o7L9m9A
— Western Decline (@WesternDecline_) March 26, 2025
Officials close to the White House have made it clear they believe the courts are not acting independently but are instead aligned with political efforts to stop Trump’s immigration agenda.