August 13, 2026

Federal Judges Face Increasing Threats

PBS NewsHour correspondent Ali Rogin, photographed 24 July 2024, in Arlington VA. Photo by Mike Morgan.
PBS NewsHour correspondent Ali Rogin, photographed 24 July 2024, in Arlington VA. Photo by Mike Morgan.

According to the U.S. Marshals Service, hundreds of federal judges have received threats this year aimed at themselves and their families. This rise in threats coincides with a series of verbal and written attacks from President Trump and his administration on judges delivering rulings unfavorable to them.

Justice correspondent Ali Rogin discussed this situation with two affected judges, John McConnell and Esther Salas. They expressed concern over the growing hostility towards the judiciary.

Ali Rogin is known for her extensive work with PBS NewsHour. Covering the Supreme Court and judicial matters, she was awarded a Peabody Award in 2021 for a series on the global effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her accolades also include two Edward R. Murrow Awards from the Radio Television Digital News Association. Rogin has contributed to Emmy-nominated work covering significant events like the fall of ISIS in 2020 and the Las Vegas shooting in 2017.

Jonah Anderson, the article’s co-author, serves as an Associate Producer at the PBS NewsHour. He collaborates closely with Rogin in reporting on pivotal national issues.

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