In a controversial move sparking widespread concern, the Justice Department abruptly fired 20 immigration judges this week amid record-breaking backlogs exceeding 3.7 million cases. The dismissals—occurring without explanation during sweeping federal workforce reductions—raise urgent questions about America’s strained immigration court system.
Thirteen judges awaiting swearing-in and five assistant chief judges received termination notices Friday, according to Matthew Biggs of the International Federation of Professional & Technical Engineers. Two additional jurists faced similar abrupt dismissals earlier in the week. They’re treating these people as if they’re not human beings, Biggs stated, characterizing the cuts as part of broader workforce reductions.
It's bad all around. These actions align with two clear priorities: shrinking government and accelerating deportations - Matthew Biggs, IFPTE Union Official
The firings occur as immigration courts face:
- A 3.7 million case backlog per Syracuse University data
- Average asylum decision timelines exceeding four years
- Recent reversal of Biden-era funding for deportation guidance
Analysts warn reducing judicial capacity amid historic backlogs could delay asylum outcomes by years, disproportionately affecting vulnerable applicants. The Trump administration has simultaneously replaced five senior court leaders, including acting director Mary Cheng, while implementing policies favoring accelerated case resolutions.
Thursday’s federal mandate requiring agencies to terminate probationary employees—potentially impacting hundreds of thousands—underscores the administration’s workforce reduction agenda. Critics argue these cuts contradict bipartisan calls for expanded court staffing to address systemic delays.
With no clarity on potential replacements for dismissed judges, legal advocates fear extended detainment periods and due process violations. The DOJ’s Executive Office for Immigration Review declined to comment on restructuring plans.