House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is drawing a line in the sand as Republicans respond to what they view as a coordinated judicial campaign against President Donald Trump’s efforts to carry out the will of the voters. With federal judges issuing decisions that slow deportation and other executive actions, Johnson is pointing to the constitutional authority Congress holds over the courts.

“We do have authority over the federal courts, as you know. We can eliminate an entire district court. We have power, funding over the courts and all these other things,” Johnson said. “Desperate times call for desperate measures and Congress is going to act.”

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— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) March 26, 2025

Some in the Trump administration have expressed frustration with what they consider judges using their power to serve political ends rather than interpret the law. They say legal challenges are being used not to uphold constitutional principles but to interfere with policy implementation.

This makes me so happy pic.twitter.com/xKOXP11C6d

— The Blue State Refugee (@TheMigrantKing) March 26, 2025

The tension centers around whether deportations fall solely under the president’s Article II responsibilities. The administration points to the Alien Enemies Act as support for its claim that federal courts have overstepped.

Yes, Congress has the power to remove a district judge through impeachment. According to the U.S. Constitution, federal judges hold their positions during good behavior (Article III, Section 1), meaning they serve for life unless removed through impeachment. pic.twitter.com/tHW09FABp3

— M.A.G.A. (FINEST) (@NicholasFl90896) March 26, 2025

Elon Musk and some House Republicans have urged stronger action, including the impeachment of judges they believe are using their positions to block lawful executive orders. Johnson, while not backing impeachment, has made clear that Congress has other means to respond.

Ideas now being considered include redrawing district court boundaries or tightening control over how those courts are funded. Johnson’s recent comments reflect a broader Republican effort to push back on what they see as politically motivated rulings.

Article III, Section 1 of the Constitution says that judges hold their offices during good behavior.

Abusing judicial authority for political gain should result in their impeachment. pic.twitter.com/xQ1o7L9m9A

— Western Decline (@WesternDecline_) March 26, 2025

The administration has encouraged Johnson to set up a confrontation between branches that would force clarity on the limits of judicial authority in immigration cases.