The American Bar Association (ABA) has strongly pushed back against attacks on the legal system after billionaire Elon Musk called for the impeachment of judges who ruled against former President Donald Trump.
In a statement, the ABA emphasized its commitment to protecting judicial independence. It warned against any attempts to reshape the legal profession to favor government allies while punishing opponents. “We will not stay silent as efforts seek to intimidate judges, courts, and legal professionals,” the statement read.
Musk, using his social media platform X, expressed frustration with judicial decisions that blocked or delayed Trump’s policies. He claimed that activist judges were interfering with democracy and should face consequences.
On February 11, Musk warned of a “coup of American democracy” by radical leftist judges. Two weeks later, he escalated his remarks, stating that the only way to restore power to the people was to remove certain judges from office.
“If ANY judge ANYWHERE can block EVERY Presidential order EVERYWHERE, we do NOT have democracy, we have TYRANNY of the JUDICIARY,” Musk posted.
Though the ABA did not mention Musk by name, it condemned recent attacks on judges. It pointed out that phrases such as “corrupt judges” and “corruption” had been used specifically against those who ruled against the government’s interests.
“We may disagree on case law interpretations, but targeting judges for their rulings is unacceptable,” the ABA stated. It also expressed concern over rising physical threats against judges, linking them to ongoing efforts to undermine the judiciary’s credibility.
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The ABA also highlighted intimidation tactics targeting lawyers. It pointed out that Justice Department attorneys had been subjected to firings and demotions simply for carrying out their duties.
One major incident involved Covington & Burling, a Washington, D.C., law firm. The Trump administration reportedly targeted the firm due to its pro bono representation of Jack Smith, who led two federal investigations into Trump. The ABA rejected such actions as attempts to manipulate the legal system.
In its closing remarks, the ABA urged legal professionals, including lawyers in elected positions, to take a stand against intimidation. “We can either stay silent or stand for the rule of law,” the statement declared.
The association reaffirmed its support for the right to seek justice in courts and rejected any efforts to remove judges or punish attorneys based on political interests. “We cannot allow these actions to tip the scales of justice,” the ABA warned.
