House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is taking aim at the courts that have blocked parts of President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda, reminding the country that Congress has the power to control how federal courts are funded and structured. As legal disputes mount, Johnson’s remarks are being seen as a serious warning to the judges he says are using lawfare to interfere with the president’s constitutional authority.
During a recent public appearance, Johnson stated, “We do have authority over the federal courts, as you know. We can eliminate an entire district court. We have power, funding over the courts and all these other things.” He added that “desperate times call for desperate measures and Congress is going to act.”
Yes, Congress has the power to remove a district judge through impeachment. According to the U.S. Constitution, federal judges hold their positions during good behavior (Article III, Section 1), meaning they serve for life unless removed through impeachment. pic.twitter.com/tHW09FABp3
— M.A.G.A. (FINEST) (@NicholasFl90896) March 26, 2025
This conflict is centered on the administration’s use of the Alien Enemies Act and the argument that deportation policy falls squarely under Article II powers. According to the White House, federal judges are now crossing the line by using their positions to block lawful orders issued by the executive branch.
Some Republicans have called for the impeachment of certain judges who are seen as actively undermining the president. Johnson has not endorsed that path, but he has left open the possibility of using budgetary control to respond to what the GOP sees as judicial overreach.
Those close to the administration are reportedly urging Johnson to take action that could trigger a direct constitutional standoff between the branches of government. So far, he has chosen not to support removal proceedings, instead pointing to alternative levers Congress can use.
Calls for aggressive action have also come from outside Congress. Elon Musk has joined others in advocating for swift impeachment of judges who are viewed as standing in the way of the administration’s goals through politically motivated rulings.
Republican lawmakers are considering whether to redraw district lines or restrict funding for courts that repeatedly block executive policies.
