WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan and Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Chairman Tom McClintock have initiated an inquiry into the reported gag order imposed by the Justice Department on immigration judges. The gag order prohibits immigration judges from communicating with Congress or the news media regarding the Biden Administration's immigration policies, raising concerns about potential violations of federal law.
In a letter addressed to the Executive Office for Immigration Review Director David Neal, Chairmen Jordan and McClintock expressed their concerns about the suppression of free speech among immigration judges amidst the ongoing immigration crisis. The letter highlighted the significant backlog of cases in federal immigration courts and the actions taken by immigration judges that allow illegal aliens to remain in the United States indefinitely.
The directive, reportedly issued by Chief Immigration Judge Sheila McNulty on February 15, 2024, requires immigration judges to seek supervisor approval before speaking publicly to external entities, including Congress, news media, and professional forums. This restriction has been criticized for silencing critics of the immigration court system, particularly in light of the escalating challenges at the border.
Chairmen Jordan and McClintock underscored the irony of the Biden Administration's efforts to limit the speech of immigration judges at a time when congressional oversight of the border crisis is crucial. They emphasized the necessity for transparency and accountability in understanding how immigration courts are implementing President Biden's immigration policies.
The reported gag order on immigration judges has raised questions regarding its compliance with federal law, specifically a provision in the annual federal appropriations law that guarantees federal employees the right to communicate freely with Congress without interference. The Chairmen emphasized that any obstruction of this right could result in consequences, including the withholding of salaries.
The inquiry launched by Chairmen Jordan and McClintock signals a commitment to upholding the principles of free speech and oversight within the federal government, particularly concerning immigration issues. The full letter to Director Neal outlining their concerns and requests for information can be accessed for further details.
