The twice-annual meeting of the Judicial Conference is, historically, dry as dust. Overseen by Chief Justice John Roberts , the gathering of federal judges from across the country meets twice a year and typically concerns itself with budget or procedures. But at the most recent gathering last week on Tuesday, Roberts was subject to unusually stern rebukes by two guest speakers: Democratic representatives Hank Johnson and Jamie Raskin of the House Judiciary Committee.

In remarks before the assembled judges, both members accused the Supreme Court of enabling President Donald Trump’s attacks on the rule of law by using the so-called shadow docket — a slate of fast-tracked proceedings that don’t get a full hearing or explanation that is sometimes more politely referred to as the “emergency

See Full Page