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Immigration judges fired en masse as Trump administration reshapes deportation rulings

August 18, 2026

The Justice Department has fired around 125 immigration judges since Trump took office, with judges saying they face pressure to rule in ways that boost deportations. Current and former judges describe new policies limiting their discretion, including packed dockets and faster decision requirements that push toward removal orders. Many judges say they fear losing their jobs if they follow the law in ways inconsistent with current administration policy.

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