Trump's despotic attack on a federal judge backfires

America’s greatness is grounded in the rule of law. But Donald Trump’s response to an order by a well-respected federal judge suspending enforcement of the president’s immigration ban was to lash out, calling him a “so-called judge.” Americans of all stripes know that even presidents are bound to follow the law.  After the court issued its ruling, Washington’s Attorney General made that plain:

“No one is above the law — not even the President.” –BF

— Attorney General Bob Ferguson (@AGOWA) February 3, 2017

Trump thinks otherwise, making an un-American attack that is being met with appropriate criticism:

POTUS's attack on Judge Robart shows a disdain for an ind. judiciary that doesn't bend to his wishes & lack of respect for the Constitution.

— Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) February 4, 2017

Trump Twitter attack on judge in immigration ban case the worst statement by a US president since Nixon suggested he was above the law.

— David Rothkopf (@djrothkopf) February 4, 2017

The president is calling a federal judge—appointed by George W. Bush, approved 99-0 by the Senate—a "so-called judge". https://t.co/oStlxnuAKT

— Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) February 4, 2017

No "so-called." Judge Robart is a GWB appointee who was confirmed 99-0. We are watching closely your contempt for our Judicial Branch. https://t.co/k1La1mPlHj

— Rep. Nadler (@RepJerryNadler) February 4, 2017

Plenty of federal judges handed down decisions challenging actions by Presidents Obama/Bush — they never personally attacked the judges.

— Jake Tapper (@jaketapper) February 4, 2017

That "so-called" judge that blocked Trump's Muslim ban was confirmed 99-0 by the Senate. Recognize any names on there? pic.twitter.com/1DGvAxU4Tb

— Jennifer Bendery (@jbendery) February 4, 2017

"So-called judge?" Appointed by President Bush. https://t.co/6rXknQurof

— Jeff Zeleny (@jeffzeleny) February 4, 2017

He attacked a judge on the campaign. And now he's attacking a judge from the White House. This is unacceptable. https://t.co/0VFy4o2FMa

— Rosa DeLauro (@rosadelauro) February 4, 2017

This is not about partisan politics or policy differences. This is about a fundamental respect for America and the system of laws that make it great. Donald Trump has shown, again, that he has none.