Federal officials have removed Immigration Judge Vivienne Gordon-Uruakpa following reports that she approved approximately 97% of the asylum cases she reviewed, one of the highest approval rates in her state. The decision comes amid broader scrutiny of immigration court rulings and case outcomes.
According to reports, Gordon-Uruakpa is among more than 100 immigration judges who have been dismissed as part of a wider effort to reform and reorganize the immigration court system. Officials have described the moves as part of an ongoing review of procedures and performance standards.
The immigration court system, which operates under the Department of Justice, has faced increasing attention in recent years due to a significant backlog of cases and differing approval rates among judges nationwide. Approval rates can vary widely depending on the region, case details, and individual judicial interpretation of asylum law.
Supporters of the changes argue that they are necessary to promote consistency and accountability within the system. Critics, however, have raised concerns about judicial independence and the potential impact on asylum seekers awaiting decisions.
The recent removals signal what officials characterize as a significant restructuring effort within the immigration courts, reflecting broader policy debates over asylum standards and immigration enforcement.