Speaker Johnson Warns Federal Courts As GOP Targets Lawfare Tactics Blocking Trump Agenda
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is sending a direct warning to federal judges and the political operatives behind the courtroom battles that have slowed down President Donald Trump’s policy efforts. With the White House leaning on the Alien Enemies Act and presidential powers under Article II, Johnson is making it clear that Congress is willing to use its constitutional authority over the judiciary to fight back.
Speaking publicly, Johnson reminded Americans that the legislative branch holds the power of the purse — including control over funding for the federal court system. He stopped short of supporting impeachment proceedings against judges, a move some Republicans have called for, but left little doubt that Congress may take steps to rein in courts they see as overstepping.
“We do have authority over the federal courts, as you know. We can eliminate an entire district court. We have power of funding over the courts and all these other things. But desperate times call for desperate measures and Congress is going to act. So stay tuned for that,” Johnson said.
Several Republicans on Capitol Hill have taken a harder line, accusing some judges of acting politically to block Trump’s policies, particularly on immigration. At the heart of the dispute is whether deportation powers under the Alien Enemies Act fall solely under executive control.
Some conservatives want Johnson to take more aggressive action, including restructuring courts or defunding certain judicial districts they believe are obstructing the administration’s plans. So far, Johnson has not endorsed those measures but is signaling that the House will not remain idle.
Figures like Elon Musk have even floated the idea of fast-tracking impeachment of judges who are seen as misusing their authority to settle political disputes. Johnson has not echoed that push, but his latest comments suggest he is open to serious steps.
The administration has framed the conflict as a battle between the executive branch and activist judges who are using lawsuits as political weapons. Republican leaders say these legal maneuvers are designed to bog down Trump’s agenda through endless litigation.
