1. United States
2. Mass.
3. Letter

The president's defiance of court orders undermines the rule of law and system of checks and balances that are foundational to our democracy. Ignoring binding legal rulings from the judicial branch represents a disturbing abuse of power. Should the Department of Justice fail to enforce these orders, the courts have the authority under Rule 4.1 to appoint an independent prosecutor or take other enforcement actions. However, impeachment may ultimately be required as a constitutional remedy for such egregious misconduct in office if the president persists in obstructing the lawful orders of the court system. Immediate action is imperative to uphold the integrity of our governing institutions and prevent further erosion of democratic norms. The crisis created by this defiance demands a resolute response to reaffirm that no person is above the law.