1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

I understand the gravity of recent events and the concerning statements made about undermining the judicial branch's role as a check on executive power. Maintaining an independent judiciary is paramount to upholding the rule of law and our democratic system of government. Judges must be free from political interference or intimidation when reviewing the legality of executive actions. While the president has legitimate constitutional authorities, no person or branch is above the law. Court orders temporarily halting policies deemed unlawful should be respected while cases proceed through the legal process. I urge you to forcefully defend judicial independence and the separation of powers against any attempts to improperly influence or disregard federal court rulings. The judiciary serves as a vital counter-balance, and its ability to impartially interpret the law and rein in overreach from the other branches must be safeguarded. Taking steps to undermine court authority would grievously erode our system of checks and balances. I ask that you stand firm in support of an independent judiciary fulfilling its constitutionally defined role.