Articles of Impeachment Filed Against Federal Judge Linked to ‘Arctic Frost’ Surveillance Scandal

Rep. Brandon Gill Files Impeachment

Rep. Brandon Gill (R-TX) has filed articles of impeachment against U.S. District Judge James Boasberg, alleging he authorized unconstitutional surveillance of lawmakers and private citizens under the Biden-era “Operation Arctic Frost.” The filing marks a significant escalation by House Republicans amid ongoing controversy over the secretive counterintelligence program.

Allegations Against Boasberg

Boasberg, a former FISC chief judge, is accused of approving subpoenas and surveillance warrants that allowed the FBI and Special Counsel Jack Smith to monitor Republican members of Congress and political donors without their knowledge. Gill called the judge’s actions a “breathtaking abuse of authority” and said they created a constitutional crisis.

Operation Arctic Frost

Launched in late 2023, Arctic Frost was described as a national security program targeting foreign influence, but investigators claim it extended to at least eight Republican lawmakers, congressional staffers, and conservative consultants. Boasberg allegedly granted nondisclosure orders concealing surveillance from those targeted.

Republican Support

Several House Republicans, including Matt Gaetz and Anna Paulina Luna, have expressed support, emphasizing that no judge should secretly spy on elected officials. GOP aides describe the impeachment as both an accountability measure and a political statement.

Democratic Response

Democrats dismiss the effort as partisan theater, with Rep. Jamie Raskin defending Boasberg as a respected jurist who authorized legal subpoenas. Legal experts note that removing a federal judge is rare and requires proof of “high crimes and misdemeanors.”

White House Statement

The White House defended Boasberg and the Justice Department, calling Arctic Frost a lawful national security program. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre rejected claims of political spying and emphasized judicial independence.

Next Steps and Implications

The resolution will go to the House Judiciary Committee for review before a potential full House vote and, if passed, a Senate trial. Republicans argue that even introducing the articles sends a message that judicial and executive overreach will not go unchallenged, highlighting the growing partisan tensions surrounding government power.