Mark L. Wolf, former Federal judge:
"In 1985, President Ronald Reagan appointed me as a federal judge. I was 38 years old. At the time, I looked forward to serving for the rest of my life. However, I resigned Friday, relinquishing that lifetime appointment and giving up the opportunity for public service that I have loved.
My reason is simple: I no longer can bear to be restrained by what judges can say publicly or do outside the courtroom. President Donald Trump is using the law for partisan purposes, targeting his adversaries while sparing his friends and donors from investigation, prosecution, and possible punishment. This is contrary to everything that I have stood for in my more than 50 years in the Department of Justice and on the bench. The White House’s assault on the rule of law is so deeply disturbing to me that I feel compelled to speak out. Silence, for me, is now intolerable."
Why I am Resigning
Comments
or my personal preferences.
That is how justice is supposed to be administered—equally for everyone, without fear or favor.
This is the opposite of what is happening now."
Comments: Donald Trump has weaponized the Justice Department.
He has abused his position by using the department to attack his perceived enemies.
"Over the past 35 years I have spoken in many countries about the role of American judges
in safeguarding democracy, protecting human rights, and combatting corruption.
Many of these countries—including Russia, China, and Turkey—are ruled by corrupt leaders
who rank among the worst abusers of human rights.
These kleptocrats jail their political opponents, suppress independent media that could expose
their wrongdoing, forbid free speech, punish peaceful protests, and frustrate every effort
to establish an independent, impartial judiciary that could constrain these abuses.
These kleptocrats have impunity in their countries because they control the police, prosecutors, and courts."
Comments: This resembles the approach taken by the Trump administration.
"I resigned in order to speak out, support litigation, and work with other individuals
and organizations dedicated to protecting the rule of law and American democracy.
I also intend to advocate for the judges who cannot speak publicly for themselves."
Comments: I applaud judge Mark L. Wolf's courage and his desire to improve the current situation.