Final answer:
A president jailing lawyers and judges to preserve power violates the rule of law and the principles of habeas corpus and judicial independence. These principles guarantee that no one can be detained without due process and that the judiciary remains free from political control.
Step-by-step explanation:
The action of a president ordering lawyers and judges to be jailed to stay in power and avoid trial for crimes violates a fundamental American governmental principle called the rule of law. This principle is entrenched in the Constitution, emphasizing that no person is above the law, regardless of their position or power. The writ of habeas corpus is a crucial element of this, as it guarantees that an individual can't be held without facing charges and must be brought before a judge.
Moreover, the Constitution expressly states that the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus can only be suspended in extreme situations such as rebellion or invasion, where public safety is at risk. This ensures that the government cannot arbitrarily detain individuals without due process, maintaining a check on executive power. The principle of judicial independence also supports this, with judges and the judiciary expected to operate without political influence, safeguarding civil liberties and the supremacy of the law.