Judicial Authority Clash: House Speaker Warns of Looming Court Eliminations

U.S. House Speaker, Mike Johnson, highlighted Congress's power to remove district courts amid tensions with activist judges obstructing Trump's policies. Johnson described nationwide judicial injunctions as unconstitutional, with Congress poised to act. The issue has sparked debate, with Senate resistance anticipated despite Republican initiatives.

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson issued a stark reminder on Tuesday of Congress's authority over federal courts, including the power to dismantle district courts. This warning comes as the White House criticizes judges blocking President Donald Trump's policies.

Johnson, leading the Republicans in the House, expressed concern about numerous judicial injunctions hindering Trump's programs, calling it a "dangerous trend" against the separation of powers. He announced plans for the House Judiciary Committee to investigate these judicial actions and has advanced legislation aiming to restrict nationwide injunctions by district courts.

Despite these measures, any bill from the House faces significant challenges in the Senate, requiring bipartisan support. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the notion of cutting court funding as "outrageous," while the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts offered no comment. Johnson's remarks, though controversial, underscore the intense debate surrounding judicial authority and legislative power.

(With inputs from agencies.)