Online Threats Against US Judges Surge: A 300% Spike

A new report reveals a disturbing trend: violent threats targeting US judges on social media platforms have exploded, increasing by over 300% compared to last year. The research, conducted by the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism (GPAHE), highlights a worrying escalation in online rhetoric.

The GPAHE report indicates that these threats, often politically charged, are no longer confined to the dark corners of the internet. Researchers found them increasingly prevalent on mainstream platforms like TikTok, as well as Truth Social, 4chan, Rumble, and Gab.

One example cited in the report includes a TikTok user’s post calling for Judge James Boasberg’s removal and charging him with treason. This followed Boasberg’s finding of probable cause for contempt against the previous administration’s stance on deportation flights.

Similarly, a Gab user targeted California judge Jennifer Thurston, who ruled against Customs and Border Protection agents stopping undocumented immigrants without reasonable suspicion. The user demanded she be locked up and sent to Gitmo.

Experts attribute the surge to inflammatory rhetoric from prominent figures. The report notes instances where figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk have publicly criticized the judiciary, potentially emboldening others to express similar sentiments online.

For instance, Trump labeled Judge Boasberg a “radical left lunatic” and suggested impeachment on Truth Social. Musk referred to court decisions as a “judicial coup” and advocated for the impeachment of judges on X.

White House spokesperson Harrison Fields countered that the previous administration weaponized his administration against his political opponents and that Trump would always stand for law and order and the US Constitution.

The consequences of these online threats can be severe. Judge John Coughenour faced a bomb threat and swatting attack after ruling against the then administration. The brother of Judge Boasberg required a security detail after false allegations made against him.

Wendy Via, CEO of GPAHE, emphasized the normalization of hateful speech on mainstream platforms. She stated that threatening posts from influencers have moved the once unthinkable into the commonplace, creating real dangers.

TikTok disputed the report, with a spokesperson stating that the report relies on anecdotal observations and exaggerated data. They also maintained that they strictly prohibit violent threats.

However, the GPAHE’s data shows a significant increase in threatening posts. On TikTok, the number rose from 35 in May 2024 to 223 in March 2025. Truth Social saw an increase from 2,232 to 9,462 posts over the same period. Gab experienced the most dramatic surge, from 273 to 3,210 posts.

Andrew Torba, who runs Gab, defended the platform’s stance on government officials and treason but did not comment on the violent threats posted on his platform.

The study highlights the urgent need for social media platforms to address the rise of violent threats against judges and for public figures to refrain from using inflammatory language that could incite violence.