Veteran Judge Steps Down in Protest Against Trump Administration
A prominent US District Court judge with over five decades of service has resigned from his position, delivering a scathing condemnation of what he describes as President Donald Trump's 'assault on the rule of law'.
Mark L. Wolf, who was originally appointed by Republican President Ronald Reagan and served in the Department of Justice for more than 50 years, made his decision public through a powerful essay published in The Atlantic on November 10, 2025.
'Existential Threat to Democracy'
In his resignation statement, Judge Wolf expressed profound concern about the direction of the American justice system under Trump's leadership since he re-entered office in January 2025. 'President Donald Trump is using the law for partisan purposes,' Wolf wrote, 'targeting his adversaries while sparing his friends and donors from investigation, prosecution, and possible punishment.'
The veteran jurist described the current situation as an 'existential threat to democracy' that compelled him to step down from the job he professed to love. His resignation comes amid growing scrutiny of Trump's decisions during his second term.
Wolf referenced earlier judicial findings that highlighted constitutional concerns, including a case where the Trump administration violated 'direct orders' regarding planes carrying deportees to El Salvador - an act another federal judge had termed 'wilful disobedience' of the Constitution.
Speaking Out for Those Who Cannot
'The White House's assault on the rule of law is so deeply disturbing to me that I feel compelled to speak out,' Wolf explained. 'Silence, for me, is now intolerable.'
The judge reflected on his career philosophy, stating he had always decided cases 'based on facts and the law – without regard to politics, popularity, or personal preference.' He contrasted this approach with current practices, noting: 'That is how justice is supposed to be administered—equally for everyone, without fear or favour. This is the opposite of what is happening now.'
Wolf provided specific examples of concerning behaviour, including Trump's public attacks on individual judges whom he called 'corrupt' and 'incompetent'. More alarmingly, the judge revealed that Trump had asked his Attorney General to seek indictments against three of his 'enemies' without proper legal basis.
New Mission: Protecting Democracy
Wolf outlined his plans following resignation, stating: 'I resigned to speak out, support litigation, and work with other individuals and organisations dedicated to protecting the rule of law and American democracy.'
He added another crucial motivation: 'I also intend to advocate for the judges who cannot speak publicly for themselves.'
The timing of Wolf's resignation coincides with declining confidence in Trump's leadership. Recent polling data reveals significant shifts in public opinion:
- The percentage of Trump voters believing the country was on the wrong track increased from 17% to 22% during September 2025
- Conservative voters who felt the US was heading in the wrong direction jumped from 29% in June to 51% in September
- Trump's overall job approval rating slid to just 37% by July 2025, less than six months into his second term
Additional controversy emerged from Trump's press conference with Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, where they linked paracetamol and vaccinations with autism - statements that sparked bipartisan outrage.
Judge Wolf's dramatic resignation represents a significant moment in American judicial history, highlighting the deepening tensions between the judiciary and executive branch under the Trump administration.
