Judge Reggie Walton finds himself under intense scrutiny from a D.C. Court of Appeals panel for his scathing comments about Donald Trump during a CNN appearance. “The district court plainly erred in imposing the computer-monitoring condition without considering whether it was ‘reasonably related’ to the relevant sentencing factors and involved ‘no greater deprivation of liberty than is reasonably necessary’ to achieve the purposes behind the sentencing,” legal analyst Julie Kelly reported.

Mike Davis, from The Article 3 Project, didn’t mince words, stating, “Maybe Judge Reggie Walton should spend less time moonlighting as a CNN commentator? And more time learning basic law?” Davis’s complaint, alleging Walton’s violation of the judicial Code of Conduct, was directed to Chief Judge Sri Srinivasan of the DC Circuit Court of Appeals.

Walton’s involvement in Capitol riot cases fueled the fire, with accusations of bias and misconduct piling up. Davis’s complaint underscored concerns about Walton’s extrajudicial pronouncements, highlighting a perceived lack of impartiality in his actions.

“I made the comments I made in the context of the sentencing I’ve imposed because I’m hoping what I say to the individuals I’m sentencing will resonate,” Judge Walton defended his remarks on CNN, attempting to justify his criticism of Trump’s remarks about Judge Juan Merchan.

Trump’s motion for Judge Merchan’s recusal adds another layer of complexity to the situation, with accusations of bias flying from all directions. Walton’s past comments about Trump as a “charlatan” and his skepticism about Trump’s commitment to democracy only add fuel to the fire.

The controversy surrounding Walton’s actions serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance judges must maintain between their judicial duties and public commentary. The integrity of the judiciary hinges on judges upholding principles of impartiality and fairness, free from the influence of personal beliefs or political affiliations.

As the legal drama unfolds, the spotlight remains firmly fixed on Judge Walton, whose actions and decisions continue to spark debate and scrutiny in the contentious aftermath of the January 6 events.