1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

I implore you to please support S. 1873 / H.R. 3607, the MARSHALS Act, legislation that would return the U.S. Marshals to the federal judiciary from the executive branch. There is a sharp rise in threats to federal judges and their families. The emerging confrontation between the executive and judicial branches regarding enforcement of court orders make it necessary to give the judiciary authority over the U.S. Marshals, the law enforcement agency tasked with protecting the courts. Over the past several months, the Trump administration has repeatedly defied federal court orders. They have expressed hostility toward judges who have ruled against it. Because of this, security risks to federal judges have only intensified. A recent report highlighted a staggering 327% increase in threats against U.S. judges on social media platforms over the past year. These attacks are not only digital, but have included bomb threats and swatting. At a time of heightened personal risk to judges, the MARSHALS Act would afford the judiciary control over its security protections. The MARSHALS Act would also reinforce judicial independence by giving federal courts the power to enforce their orders. As Senator Grassley noted recently, “We’ve got a system of checks and balances.” That system relies on the executive branch following court orders, a foundation of our constitutional order. Congress must pass the MARSHALS Act now to preserve and save our independent judiciary. Thanks.