1. United States
2. Neb.
3. Letter

The recent arrest of Judge Hannah Dugan by federal agents is an alarming escalation by the Trump administration in its overreach against the judicial branch and its attacks on due process for immigrants. This blatant attempt to intimidate judges and erode the constitutional separation of powers poses a grave threat to our democracy. If they can do this to judges, the implications of what they could do to average citizens much less vulnerable immigrants and those with less power is horrifying. It's far too reflective of Nazi Germany escalations. Judge Dugan's alleged actions to prevent immigration authorities from using her courtroom as a dragnet for deportations should be commended, not criminalized. When federal agents flagrantly disregard proper judicial warrants and procedures, it undermines the entire legal system and deters people from participating in court proceedings out of fear. This undermines justice for all. We cannot allow the Trump regime to continue consolidating authoritarian power by silencing dissent, inciting fear, and dismantling the very institutions designed to uphold our rights and liberties. This lawless overreach is an affront to the Constitution and a danger to every American. We must stand united against this anti-democratic agenda and demand that the rule of law and separation of powers be respected. The independence of the judiciary is paramount to preserving our freedoms.