AG Bondi Moves Against Obama-Appointed Judge Over Anti-Trump Comments [WATCH]
On Monday, the U.S. Department of Justice lodged a formal complaint regarding misconduct against U.S. District Court Chief Judge James E. Boasberg, referencing public remarks purportedly made by the judge that cast doubt on the Trump administration’s commitment to adhere to federal court decisions.
The complaint, initiated under the guidance of Attorney General Pam Bondi, charges Boasberg with engaging in improper conduct that jeopardizes the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.
Chad Mizelle, Chief of Staff to Attorney General Bondi, submitted the complaint, which was directed to Chief Judge Sri Srinivasan of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.
In the filing, Mizelle stated, “The Department of Justice respectfully submits this complaint alleging misconduct by U.S. District Court Chief Judge James E. Boasberg for making improper public comments about President Donald J. Trump to the Chief Justice of the United States and other federal judges that have undermined the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary.”
The Justice Department’s complaint outlines two particular incidents related to Judge Boasberg’s behavior.
As per the document, the first incident took place on March 11, 2025, during a session of the Judicial Conference of the United States.
Typically, the Judicial Conference deals with administrative matters such as court security, facilities, and budgetary concerns; however, it was allegedly utilized by Judge Boasberg to deliver unsolicited remarks regarding the Trump administration.
The complaint asserts that Judge Boasberg informed Chief Justice John Roberts and around two dozen federal judges that the Trump administration would “disregard rulings of federal courts” and instigate “a constitutional crisis.”
The Department highlighted that these remarks were not only unsuitable but also devoid of any factual foundation.
“Even if his comments had some basis, they would still be inappropriate; however, they were even more egregious because Judge Boasberg had no basis—the Trump Administration has consistently adhered to all court orders. Furthermore, Judge Boasberg did not specify any alleged violations of court orders to substantiate his unprecedented predictions,” the complaint states.
The second incident pertains to a case currently under Judge Boasberg’s supervision regarding the deportation of several migrants to El Salvador.
The judge allegedly accused attorneys from the Department of Justice of not adhering to his directive to halt ongoing deportations.
The Justice Department has contested that characterization, asserting that the administration has acted in compliance with all legal obligations and court orders.
“He repeatedly acted on his unfounded belief in litigation over which he presided,” the complaint claims.
Boasberg, appointed during the Obama administration, has faced criticism from administration officials for decisions that have opposed the White House, particularly in immigration and administrative law matters. President Donald Trump has openly criticized the judge for what he termed partisan decisions.
The misconduct complaint signifies an unusual action by the Justice Department against a sitting chief judge, indicating increased tensions between the federal judiciary and the Trump administration.