Congressional Democrats have introduced a bill aimed at transferring control of the U.S. Marshals Service from the executive branch to the federal judiciary. This move is designed to protect judges from political interference and ensure their security. The proposal comes in response to increasing threats against judges, particularly as tensions rise over legal decisions that challenge the current administration.
The legislation was announced on Thursday and seeks to create a more independent security structure for judges. Currently, the U.S. Marshals, who are responsible for protecting judges, report to the Attorney General. Critics argue that this arrangement could lead to conflicts of interest, especially if the executive branch pressures the Marshals to ignore court orders or withdraw security from judges whose rulings are unfavorable.
Representative Eric Swalwell of California, one of the bill’s sponsors, emphasized the importance of judicial independence. He expressed concern that judges might feel pressured to make decisions based on fear of retaliation rather than the law. The bill aims to establish a new oversight board that would include the Chief Justice of the United States and members of the Judicial Conference, thus reflecting a structure similar to that of the U.S. Capitol Police.
The proposed legislation is called the Maintaining Authority and Restoring Security to Halt the Abuse of Law Act. It is backed by several Democratic representatives, including Jamie Raskin and Hank Johnson. In the Senate, the bill is supported by Cory Booker, Chuck Schumer, Alex Padilla, and Adam Schiff. Although it may face challenges in a Republican-controlled Congress, the bill signals a serious concern among Democrats about the safety of judges.
Threats against judges have become increasingly alarming. For instance, the son of U.S. District Judge Esther Salas was tragically killed in their home by a disgruntled litigant. This incident highlights the real dangers judges face, prompting lawmakers to take action.
In addition to direct threats, judges have reported receiving unsolicited pizza deliveries at their homes, which appears to be an intimidation tactic. Some deliveries were even made in the name of Judge Salas’s deceased son, further illustrating the harassment judges endure.
Senator Booker remarked on the historical role of the U.S. Marshals in protecting judges but pointed out that their dual accountability to both the executive and judicial branches creates potential for a constitutional crisis. The bill seeks to address these concerns by reinforcing the separation of powers and ensuring that judges can operate without fear of political repercussions.
As this legislation moves forward, it remains to be seen how it will be received in Congress. However, the growing threats against the judiciary have made it clear that action is necessary to safeguard the independence and security of the judicial system.