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

Judge Chloe S. Dillon, recognized for granting asylum in 96. 5 percent of her cases, was fired by the Department of Justice, highlighting ongoing tensions in immigration courts. This dismissal is part of a trend under the Trump administration, which has seen over 50 immigration judges fired nationally this year, contributing to a backlog of approximately 3. 5 million cases.

Dillon's termination is particularly striking as she was hired in 2022 and seemingly outside the typical probation period for immigration judges. Her courtroom has faced challenges, including incidents where asylum-seekers were arrested immediately after hearings. Immigration judges have voiced concerns about the political motivations behind these firings, suggesting a broader strategy to influence asylum outcomes. The Justice Department has not commented on Dillon's dismissal or the circumstances surrounding it. Additionally, Dillon's courtroom remains a site of tension, as evidenced by a recent incident involving ICE arrests.

The ongoing firings of judges with high asylum grant rates raise significant questions about the future of immigration justice.