Threats to US Federal Judges More Than Double Amid Political Division
The U.S. Marshals Service reports a significant increase in threats against federal judges and prosecutors, highlighting the impact of political polarization.
- Serious threats to U.S. federal judges have more than doubled in the past three years, with 457 incidents reported in fiscal year 2023.
- The rise in threats is attributed to the country's deep political divisions and is linked to high-profile cases, including those involving former President Donald Trump.
- Judges and prosecutors involved in Trump-related cases, as well as those affected by the Supreme Court's abortion ruling, have faced numerous threats.
- The U.S. Marshals Service, responsible for the protection of federal judges and prosecutors, expresses growing concern over the surge in politically motivated threats.
- U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland has expressed alarm at the spike in threats against public officials, warning it threatens the fabric of democracy.