Trump admin. fires S.F. immigration judge with high asylum rate

The Department of Justice fired Judge Chloe S. Dillon, a prominent immigration judge in San Francisco, known for her high asylum approval rate of 96. 5 percent. This dismissal adds to a troubling trend where the Trump administration has removed over 50 immigration judges in 2025, many of whom granted asylum at rates above the national average. Dillon's clearance rate starkly contrasts with the national average of 42.

3 percent, highlighting the political implications of her firing. She was reportedly beyond the standard two-year probation period for immigration judges, raising questions about the motivations behind her dismissal. Critics argue these firings reflect a politically motivated strategy to reshape immigration courts. The Justice Department has not responded to inquiries regarding Dillon's case, which follows a chaotic scene where an asylum-seeker was arrested outside her courtroom. This incident underscores ongoing tensions between immigration judges and enforcement agencies like ICE.

The administration's actions have sparked concern among immigration judges, who assert that their independence is compromised.