1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The Trump administration's arrest of Judge Hannah Dugan for allegedly obstructing immigration agents is a concerning escalation that threatens judicial independence. While the circumstances are complex, arresting a judge over a disagreement about how to handle immigration enforcement seems like an overreach that could undermine public trust in the legal system. There must be a clear legal basis and proper procedures followed when taking such an extraordinary step against a member of the judiciary. This action raises questions about the administration's motivations and whether political pressure is being applied inappropriately. It's crucial to protect the ability of judges to make decisions free from intimidation or retaliation. A measured, impartial review of the facts is needed to ensure the rule of law is upheld. Aggressive enforcement tactics that create a chilling effect on the courts should be concerning to all who value an independent judiciary as a cornerstone of our democracy.