John Roberts has warned that personal hostility directed at judges poses a serious risk to the judicial system, calling for an end to such attacks. Speaking at an event in Houston, the head of the US Supreme Court said criticism of court rulings was both expected and healthy but warned that remarks targeting judges personally could have dangerous consequences. “The problem sometimes is that the criticism can move from a focus on legal analysis to personalities,” Roberts said. “That, frankly, can be quite dangerous.”
Get today's headlines by email 
Although Roberts did not name individuals, his comments come shortly after renewed criticism from Donald Trump, who has repeatedly attacked judges over rulings affecting his administration.
Concerns over rising rhetoric
The president recently criticised James Boasberg, who blocked subpoenas tied to an investigation involving Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Trump called for disciplinary action against the judge and questioned the integrity of others involved in similar cases.
Roberts stressed that while judges’ decisions should be open to scrutiny, personal attacks undermine the role of the judiciary. “Judges around the country work very hard to get it right,” he said, adding that their rulings remain subject to public and legal challenge.
Tensions between courts and executive
The remarks highlight ongoing tensions between the judiciary and the executive branch. Since returning to office, Trump and allies have criticised several court decisions that have slowed or blocked elements of his policy agenda.
In previous instances, Trump has even called for the impeachment of judges whose rulings he opposed. Roberts has publicly pushed back on such suggestions, stating that impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement over legal decisions.
Recent rulings and criticism
Despite ideological alignment in some cases, the Supreme Court has not consistently ruled in Trump’s favour. In a recent decision, the court struck down his administration’s global tariff measures, finding them unlawful.
Following that ruling, Trump criticised several justices, including Neil Gorsuch and Amy Coney Barrett, both of whom he had appointed during his first term.
Roberts’ comments underline concerns about the tone of political discourse surrounding the courts, as debates over judicial independence and accountability continue in the United States.
Join the discussion? 
Already a member? 
Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 18 March 2026