Kash Patel Called for Impeaching Federal Judges in 2023

Trump's FBI nominee: "People aren't going to like this"

During an appearance on Don Jr.'s Triggered podcast in September 2023, Kash Patel, a close ally of Donald Trump and his nominee for FBI director, advocated for Republicans to begin impeaching federal judges—an extraordinary suggestion that undermines judicial independence and the rule of law.

Patel had his perpetual trademark sniffle working during the interview (the cold he has apparently had for years that he just can’t shake), while Junior looked on through bloody slits for eye sockets with a bright red flushed face.

Patel specifically targeted judges presiding over cases involving January 6th rioters and Trump himself, labeling them as "political terrorists" and calling impeachment a necessary "drastic measure." His comments suggest a willingness to use the power of impeachment—a tool historically reserved for addressing misconduct or criminal behavior—as a partisan weapon against members of the judiciary who rule against his political allies.

This rhetoric is not only unprecedented but also disqualifying for someone seeking to lead the FBI, a position that demands impartiality and a steadfast commitment to the Constitution. The FBI director must uphold the principles of justice and independence, not orchestrate politically motivated attacks on judges.

Patel’s comments signal that, under his leadership, the FBI could be weaponized to target perceived political enemies, eroding public trust in the agency and the judiciary alike. Judicial independence is a cornerstone of American democracy. It ensures that judges can make decisions based on the law, free from political pressure or intimidation.

The call to impeach judges who oversee politically sensitive cases should alarm Americans across the political spectrum. It is a blatant effort to undermine the judiciary’s independence and turn it into a partisan battleground. Kash Patel’s comments are a stark reminder of why his nomination to lead the FBI is deeply troubling and why his vision for the agency is incompatible with democratic principles.