46 Former Judges Condemn Attempts to Undermine Judicial Independence

Forty-six retired judges from across political spectrums have sounded an urgent alarm about mounting threats against judicial independence. They've called out current government actions aimed at "intimidating" and "harassing" our judicial system. These judges, appointed by leaders from both major parties, made it clear their warning isn't about politics, releasing this open letter on Constitution Day as a rallying cry.

Marking 238 years since our Constitution came alive, this letter serves both as a rebuke and a call. It's asking every American out there: stand up and defend judicial independence, a cornerstone laid down by our founders. "Our Constitution has held strong since 1787," they wrote. "Now, it's our turn."

Guarding our judges

The judges are deeply troubled by an escalating political squeeze on our judiciary, which they see as vital in keeping American democracy alive. They pointed out how misinformation and divisive speech have twisted public perception, shaking trust in our courts' ability and duty.

"Threats towards judges and their families aim blatantly at intimidation," they emphasized. "These are attempts not just at harassment but also at skewing judicial decisions. If left unchecked, such actions can crumble public faith in our courts and threaten democracy's very bedrock."

Uniting across party lines

The judges stressed that defending our Constitution goes beyond party loyalty. "Our oath remains firm, regardless if we've retired," they insisted. The Article III coalition, as they're known, boasts judges appointed by presidents like Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama.

Their declaration aligns with a civic education initiative launched by Keep Our Republic, focusing on fostering civic knowledge and trust in democratic systems. This effort seeks public awareness about how vital it truly becomes keeping our judiciary free from political meddling.

Rallying public support

The judges called on everyone—yes, everyone—to join in defending our judiciary, reminding us that an educated citizenry remains essential in upholding democracy. "It's critical we rally together," they urged. "An informed public can serve as democracy's strongest shield against threats targeting judicial independence."

Judge John E. Jones III, once named by George W. Bush, spotlighted how speaking out against groundlessly attacking our judiciary becomes imperative. "While it's fair game questioning judicial decisions, baseless personal attacks jeopardize judges' safety and court integrity," he remarked.

Wrapping up their message, they promised ongoing advocacy, aiming at educating people on how important our judiciary becomes in safeguarding our Constitution. They're inviting citizens everywhere: participate, learn, and keep watching out against anything undermining democratic institutions.

Empowering democracy through knowledge

This letter marks an extraordinary bipartisan movement tackling a pressing threat facing American courts. Looking ahead, these retired judges, with Keep Our Republic, plan several educational events aimed at boosting awareness about how vital our judiciary becomes in democracy.

"Our democracy's survival hinges critically on an independent judiciary," they concluded. "Join us in ensuring our judiciary stays beyond political coercion's reach."

As threats toward judicial independence don't seem ready quitting, these judges' message rings like a call-to-action bell. It beckons citizens acknowledge our Constitution's timeless importance and protect its principles now and always.

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