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The Trump administration has dismissed eight immigration judges from New York City's 26 Federal Plaza, including Assistant Chief Judge Amiena A. Khan. The dismissals, which occurred on Monday, are part of a broader effort to expedite deportations across the United States. The firings have raised concerns about potential delays in immigration proceedings and the motivations behind the dismissals.
According to Livemint, these judges were among the 34 who worked at 26 Federal Plaza, a key location for immigration enforcement in New York City. The National Association of Immigration Judges confirmed the firings, which are part of nearly 100 dismissals nationwide this year. The New York Times reported that 36 judges have already been replaced by the Trump administration.
The firings have sparked speculation that judges perceived as lenient were targeted. PBS NewsHour highlighted that many of the dismissed judges had backgrounds in immigrant defense, leading to questions about the administration's hardline immigration stance.
The loss of judges is expected to exacerbate the existing backlog of over three million immigration cases. Former judge Emmett Soper, who was also dismissed, told PBS that the firings have increased delays, as remaining judges inherit additional caseloads.
In response to the firings, the Trump administration has approved military judges to serve temporarily in immigration courts. However, the transition may face challenges, as immigration law is complex and requires time to master.
The Department of Justice, when questioned by NPR, stated that immigration judges are evaluated on conduct, impartiality, and performance, denying any targeting based on prior experience. The DOJ also disputed the reported number of firings, claiming fewer than 55 judges were dismissed.
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