Federal Judge Challenges GOP Congressman to Impeach After Sentencing Controversy

AUSTIN, Texas — A federal judge in Texas has openly challenged a Republican congressman to consider impeachment after he made critical remarks during a recent sentencing hearing. Senior U.S. District Judge David Ezra made his comments this week, suggesting that his candid statements could provoke an impeachment effort from the congressman.

“Do I think what I’ve said today may well cause this MAGA Republican congressman here in Texas to file a declaration of impeachment against me? Maybe. Bring it on. I’m more than happy,” Ezra remarked during a hearing on Wednesday. His comments likely referenced first-term Congressman Brandon Gill from Flower Mound, who previously initiated impeachment proceedings against another federal judge for rulings considered unfavorable to the Trump administration.

Gill’s impeachment resolution claimed that U.S. District Judge James Boasberg misused his position by ordering the release of a plane that was meant to transport deportees back to Venezuela. As of Thursday, Gill’s office had not responded to requests for comment regarding Ezra’s remarks.

Historically, the U.S. House of Representatives has impeached 15 federal judges since its inception, with only eight resulting in removal after Senate trials. Experts believe that if House Republicans were to pass an impeachment motion against Ezra, it would likely not secure a conviction in the Senate, which would require bipartisan support.

During the hearing, Ezra discussed his rationale for accepting a binding plea agreement involving real estate developer Nate Paul, following an hour-long session. Ezra reflected on the limited options judges have when confronted with plea agreements, mentioning that such deals often disrupt judicial processes.

“Federal judges generally are not fond of such agreements. They upset the balance of the judicial process and limit the court,” Ezra noted, explaining that judges can either accept the plea agreement or let defendants withdraw their guilty pleas.

Ezra ultimately imposed a $1 million fine on Paul and sentenced him to five years of supervised release, alongside four months of home confinement. While considering the high stakes of the underlying case, Ezra acknowledged the political implications of a potential trial involving Paul.

“They wanted to limit Mr. Paul’s potential for a lengthy prison sentence should he go to trial and be convicted,” Ezra explained. Paul had previously contributed $25,000 to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s campaign, who faced impeachment charges in 2023 but was acquitted.

Addressing recurring challenges with Justice Department processes, Ezra stated, “An assistant United States attorney was just fired for being candid with a federal judge in court.” He criticized the politicization of the judiciary, claiming that such actions constitute a disservice to justice.

Ezra’s comments highlight a growing tension between judicial independence and political pressure, culminating in his call for adherence to constitutional principles. He emphasized that judges must remain impartial, irrespective of political affiliations.

In concluding his statements during the hearing, Ezra stated, “I’m very proud to have upheld that for the 36-plus years I’ve been a federal judge. And it won’t change here, and it won’t change at any time in the future.” Ezra’s comments reflect an ongoing debate about the balance of power between the judiciary and legislature amid a politically charged environment.