Justice Department files misconduct complaint against judge in key deportations case
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DOJ Files Misconduct Complaint Against Federal Judge
Above: James Boasberg in Washington, DC, on Monday, March 13, 2023. Image copyright: Valerie Plesch/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
Judge Boasberg crossed a clear ethical line by attempting to influence Chief Justice Roberts and other federal judges with baseless predictions about constitutional crises. The Trump administration has consistently complied with all court orders, making his inflammatory comments at the Judicial Conference completely unfounded and inappropriate for a venue meant to discuss administrative matters.
Democratic narrative
The misconduct complaint represents the latest escalation in Trump's broad pressure campaign against federal judges who have ruled against his priorities. Boasberg's March comments came just days before he issued the deportation ruling, and the administration proceeded with deportations despite his order, raising legitimate concerns about compliance.