The Trump administration is criticizing as “absurd” and “wrong” a report saying federal judges are considering shifting control of armed security officers from the Department of Justice to the judicial branch over concerns that President Trump could jeopardize judges’ safety.

“The U.S. Marshals Service will continue to protect the safety and security of federal judges and any suggestion to the contrary is not only absurd but wrong,” a Justice Department official said.

The pushback follows a Wall Street Journal report on Sunday saying a group of about 50 judges in March held closed-door meetings at the Judicial Conference’s semiannual gathering in Washington about managing their own security. Judges had told reporters during a press conference that addressing threats targeting them was a particular focus during their meetings.

The judges’ concerns center on the notion that Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Justice Department, which oversees the U.S. Marshals Service that protects federal judges, could be directed not to protect a judge who rules against Mr. Trump.

Instead of the Justice Department overseeing the U.S. Marshals Service, the head of the federal judiciary — Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. — would supervise the marshals.

The Judicial Conference raised concerns during March’s press conference about security, funding and the need for more judgeships. It also chastised recent moves to impeach judges over their rulings.

Judge Richard Sullivan of the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals chairs the Judicial Conference’s judicial security committee. Judge Sullivan said technology has made threats against judges an increasing problem and investigating them relies on the U.S. Marshals Service.

“The security of judges and courthouses is a top priority for the judiciary,” said Judge Sullivan. “The nature of threats requires an evolving response.”

His comments came as Mr. Trump and his allies were calling for the impeachment of a district court judge who had ruled against the president’s agenda.

The president has seen more than 400 lawsuits challenging various aspects of his orders, ranging from military readiness to immigration to anti-diversity, equity and inclusion policies, among others.

Judges also have had pizza deliveries to their private residences, which have been viewed as threats showing that their private home addresses are known.

• Alex Swoyer can be reached at aswoyer@washingtontimes.com.