MAGA cheers Wisconsin judge's arrest
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The MAGA faithful are ecstatic over the FBI's arrest of Milwaukee County judge Hannah Dugan Friday on charges of obstructing an immigration arrest.
Why it matters: The incident represents several escalations all at once.
- The Trump administration has sought new ways to force the hands of local officials who don't want to help with federal immigration enforcement.
- And it has been willing to needle and even defy judges, especially over immigration.
What they're saying: "Lock em up!!" Rep. Troy Nehls (R-Texas), a staunch Trump ally, told Axios after the arrest.
- "Good. We need to see more arrests!!" Rep. Mary Miller (R-Ill.) said on X.
- "Take note, local officials. Obstructing federal immigration enforcement will no longer be tolerated. The American people have spoken. And their voice is clear," posted right-wing podcaster Jack Posobiec.
Catch up quick: FBI agents arrived at Dugan's courtroom last week to arrest a man who was in the country illegally. He was appearing before Dugan on separate charges.
- Dugan confronted the agents in the hallway outside her courtroom, according to the FBI's criminal complaint, and told them they needed to go see the court's chief judge.
- She then escorted the defendant through a side door and out the back of the courthouse, the charges state.
- He made it outside, but was arrested after a brief foot chase.
What they're saying: "What has happened to our judiciary is beyond me," Attorney General Pam Bondi said on Fox News. "The [judges] are deranged, is all I can think of."
The other side: "They arrested a judge?! They can no longer claim to be a party of law and order. This will have to be a red line for congressional Republicans. Unbelievable," said Rep. Greg Landsman (D-Ohio).
