Story perspectives

Trump Dismisses 98 Immigration Judges, Sparking Due Process Concerns

12/6/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified the firing of immigration judges, with 98 dismissed nationwide since January.
Eight of those dismissals occurred in New York City.
The number of immigration judges has dropped from about 700 to below 600.
Democrats have proposed legislation to limit who can serve as temporary judges.
The administration has begun hiring military lawyers as temporary judges, raising due process concerns.

History

Historical Context

The Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRAIRA) of 1996 reformed U.S. immigration policy, enhancing enforcement and judicial scrutiny. Effective April 1, 1997, it led to a rise in immigration judges, reaching around 700 by 2000. The recent dismissal of 98 judges, including eight in New York City, highlights ongoing tensions regarding immigration enforcement and due process, reflecting historical debates on national security versus individual rights.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified the firing of immigration judges, with 98 dismissed nationwide since January.
Eight of those dismissals occurred in New York City.
The number of immigration judges has dropped from about 700 to below 600.
Democrats have proposed legislation to limit who can serve as temporary judges.
The administration has begun hiring military lawyers as temporary judges, raising due process concerns.

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