Federal Judge Reads Death Threats After Haiti TPS Ruling

Judge Ana Reyes declines to stay her decision blocking end of protections for Haitian immigrants.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A federal judge in Washington, DC used part of a court hearing to read aloud the violent death threats she received after ruling against the Trump administration's attempt to end temporary immigration protections for Haitians living in the US. Judge Ana Reyes defended the work of her colleagues, who she said regularly receive such messages.

Why it matters

The threats against Judge Reyes highlight the increasingly hostile environment that judges and other public officials face, especially when making controversial rulings on politically charged issues like immigration policy.

The details

In her ruling, Judge Reyes blocked the Trump administration's attempt to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian immigrants living in the US. This prompted a flood of profane and threatening emails and social media messages directed at the judge, including one that said "I hope you die today" and "Enjoy choking on your tongue." Despite the threats, Reyes declined to put her decision on hold during the court hearing.

  • On February 13, 2026, Judge Reyes read the death threats during a court hearing.

The players

Judge Ana Reyes

A federal judge in Washington, DC who ruled against the Trump administration's attempt to end temporary immigration protections for Haitians living in the US.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the growing threats and hostility that judges and other public officials face, especially when making controversial rulings on politically charged issues like immigration policy. It underscores the need to protect the independence of the judiciary and ensure the safety of those serving in the legal system.