Justice Sotomayor Warns of Threats to Judicial Independence in Georgetown Speech

Sotomayor highlights the erosion of norms and the importance of protecting the rule of law as the Trump administration faces criticism for defying court orders.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor emphasized the need for a 'fearlessly independent' judiciary during her remarks at Georgetown University on March 28, 2025.
She expressed concern about the erosion of societal norms that underpin the rule of law, warning that breaking these norms threatens judicial integrity and societal stability.
Sotomayor criticized public leaders, including lawyers, for making statements that challenge the rule of law, calling it a failure of legal education.
The Trump administration continues to face backlash for defying court orders, including its latest emergency appeal to enforce the Alien Enemies Act for rapid deportations.
Chief Justice John Roberts recently defended judicial independence, rejecting calls for impeachment of judges over disagreements with their rulings.