1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

The threat by the executive branch to impeach a federal judge for issuing a ruling they disagree with is an alarming attack on judicial independence and the separation of powers. The ability of courts to act as an impartial check on the other branches is a bedrock principle of our constitutional system. Attempting to remove judges over unpopular decisions would gravely undermine the rule of law and our democratic institutions. Federal judges must be able to make decisions free from political retaliation or intimidation by the President. This disturbing rhetoric demanding the judge's impeachment should be forcefully rejected by all who value an independent judiciary.