House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is reminding Washington that Congress holds real power over the federal judiciary. While some Republicans push for impeachment of judges they say are interfering with President Donald Trump’s authority, Johnson is warning that lawmakers can withhold funding from courts that overstep.
In a statement raising eyebrows across D.C., Johnson said, “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 followed by stating that “desperate times call for desperate measures and Congress is going to act.”
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 26, 2025
The recent tensions stem from legal challenges slowing the president’s plans, especially on immigration enforcement. The debate centers around the Alien Enemies Act and whether deportation decisions fall solely under the commander in chief’s Article II powers.
This makes me so happy pic.twitter.com/xKOXP11C6d
— The Blue State Refugee (@TheMigrantKing) March 26, 2025
While Johnson has not endorsed the more aggressive steps favored by some Republicans, including Elon Musk, he’s not ruling out action. Musk and others have called for rapid impeachment of judges they say are turning legal procedure into political obstruction.
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
The White House has expressed frustration with judges they see as acting politically. Officials say certain rulings amount to coordinated resistance from the bench against the administration’s efforts.
Although Johnson has avoided joining calls for impeachment, he has opened the door to other moves that could limit court interference. One option raised by Republicans is redrawing court boundaries or changing how funds are distributed to certain jurisdictions.
Article III, Section 1 of the Constitution says that judges hold their offices during good behavior.
Abusing judicial authority for political gain should result in their impeachment. pic.twitter.com/xQ1o7L9m9A
— Western Decline (@WesternDecline_) March 26, 2025
This strategy is seen by some on the right as a way to reassert congressional authority without engaging in lengthy removal battles. Others believe the pressure alone may discourage courts from inserting themselves into policy fights.
Some members of the administration are encouraging Johnson to go even further to trigger a confrontation between the legislative and judicial branches.
