Story perspectives

Surge in Death Threats Against Judges Amid Trump's Rhetoric

3/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Federal judges report a surge in death threats tied to political rhetoric from U.S. President Donald Trump, with threats up 78% in four years.
Judge John Coughenour blocked U.S. President Donald Trump's birthright citizenship order, facing threats.
Judge Esther Salas, whose son was murdered by a disgruntled litigant, says inflammatory language erodes trust.
Retired Judge John Jones says both sides fuel the toxicity, with Trump’s attacks harming judicial legitimacy.

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Story summary

Federal judges report a surge in death threats tied to political rhetoric from U.S. President Donald Trump, with threats up 78% in four years.
Judge John Coughenour blocked U.S. President Donald Trump's birthright citizenship order, facing threats.
Judge Esther Salas, whose son was murdered by a disgruntled litigant, says inflammatory language erodes trust.
Retired Judge John Jones says both sides fuel the toxicity, with Trump’s attacks harming judicial legitimacy.