Deborah Koff Ross: “I thank the ranking member for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, Article III of our Constitution vests judicial power of…”

“I thank the ranking member for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, Article III of our Constitution vests judicial power of the United States in the Supreme Court and lower courts. The Constitution says that this power extends to all cases arising under the Constitution or laws passed by Congress. This is a bedrock principle of American democracy, and it is not up for debate. Yet, now that the courts are blocking his unconstitutional and unlawful actions, Donald Trump wants to claim the power for himself and his administration. Trump does not subscribe to the principle of judicial review, and he doesn't believe in the sanctity of the Constitution. He cares only about himself and getting his own way. Mr. Speaker, Trump and his followers are threatening judges with impeachment and far worse. Bomb threats, harassing calls, and swatting all send the same terrifying message: We know where you and your family live, and you better get out of the President's way. President Trump's attacks on the judiciary are clear violations of his oath of office to protect and defend the Constitution. Mr. Speaker, threats to judges and their families simply cannot be tolerated, and Members of this body have a profound responsibility to speak with one voice to condemn these reprehensible tactics. I implore my Republican colleagues to set politics aside and do the right thing. For this reason, at the appropriate time, I will offer a motion to recommit this bill back to committee.…”