Judges Seek Independent Security Amid Trump Threats | JQJO

Federal judges are considering creating their own armed security force, independent of the Department of Justice, due to concerns about the Trump administration's protection. Rising threats against judges, amplified by President Trump's criticism of court rulings, fueled this proposal. The current system relies on US Marshals, who are under the Attorney General's control, a Trump appointee. Judges fear potential political influence on their security. While the Justice Department asserts continued protection, some judges, like John Coughenour, believe a shift in control is necessary to ensure their safety, citing recent threats such as swatting attacks and targeted deliveries.