The Trump administration has fired at least 139 immigration judges since taking office, with significant waves in New York and nationwide, targeting those with immigrant defense backgrounds to expedite deportations.
Mass Firings Target Experienced Judges
Eight New York judges at 26 Federal Plaza—including assistant chief judge Aiena A Khan—were abruptly terminated, part of broader DOJ efforts replacing career civil servants with policy-aligned personnel. Many dismissals hit during probationary periods, leaving thousands of cases reassigned and backlogs worsening to 2029 hearings.
Strategic Remaking of Immigration Courts
DOJ removed senior EOIR leadership, lowered temporary judge hiring standards to include military lawyers, and ended appeals processes—prioritizing speed over due process amid raids flooding courts. Judges report no explanations beyond Attorney General authority.
Backlash and Systemic Strain
Critics warn replacing seasoned judges with minimally trained staff undermines fairness; courts like San Francisco’s face closures. Administration recruits deportation-focused attorneys while immigrant advocates decry “judicial massacre.”
