Chief Justice Roberts Defends Independence of Judiciary in Buffalo Remarks

BUFFALO, New York — Chief Justice John Roberts emphasized the importance of an independent judiciary during a speech in Buffalo on Wednesday. His remarks come amid growing criticism of federal judges from various officials, including President Donald Trump.

Roberts addressed over 600 attendees at the 125th anniversary of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York, where he noted, “In our Constitution, the judiciary is a co-equal branch of government, separate from the others, with the authority to interpret the Constitution as law.” He stressed that this independence allows the judiciary to check the excesses of Congress and the executive branch.

Responding to a question from U.S. District Judge Lawrence Vilardo about calls for impeachment from Trump and his allies concerning judges’ rulings, Roberts stated, “Impeachment is not how you register disagreement with a decision.” He highlighted the traditional appellate review process as the appropriate course of action.

Roberts, who was appointed by President George W. Bush in 2005, assured his audience he has no intention of retiring as he marks nearly 20 years on the Supreme Court. His comments echo an earlier sentiment expressed by Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, who pushed back against the attacks on judges, referring to them as “attacks on our democracy.”

The chief justice’s remarks come at a time when lower court judges have faced scrutiny and personal attacks from Trump. The judiciary’s role, according to Roberts, is crucial to maintaining the rule of law and protecting the constitutional order.

The Supreme Court is set to hear cases next week that include significant issues such as Trump’s efforts to change birthright citizenship and the administration’s policies on immigration.