Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson has voiced her support for an "enforceable code" of ethics for the nation's highest court, citing the importance of impartiality and public trust.
In her first sit-down interview since being appointed to the Supreme Court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson has expressed her backing for an "enforceable" code of ethics for justices, emphasizing the crucial role of impartiality and ensuring public confidence in the court's decisions.
During an interview with CBS News' Norah O'Donnell, Jackson stated her belief in following ethical guidelines and the need for the Supreme Court to hold itself to the same standards as other courts. She noted that gift disclosures and impartiality were essential for the public to assess the fairness of judicial opinions.
Justice Jackson Calls for Enforceable Ethics Code for Supreme Court
The Supreme Court recently issued a new "Code of Conduct" following intense scrutiny from Democrats pushing for ethics reforms. The move came amid allegations of undisclosed gifts and questionable conduct by some justices.
Jackson declined to comment specifically on the reporting surrounding Justice Clarence Thomas, stating that she would not "comment on other justices' interpretations of the rules or what they're doing."
Justice Jackson Calls for Enforceable Ethics Code for Supreme Court
The justice emphasized that ethical codes were "pretty standard for judges" and questioned why the Supreme Court should be exempt. She expressed openness to considering an enforcement mechanism for ethical violations.
Jackson's financial disclosure revealed that she received four concert tickets from Beyoncé valued at $3,700, an advance of $900,000 for her upcoming memoir, and two gifts of artwork worth $12,500.
Justice Jackson Calls for Enforceable Ethics Code for Supreme Court
She also shared her concerns about the Supreme Court's decision on former President Trump's immunity, arguing that the system should not grant special treatment to individuals based on their position. Jackson had dissented in the ruling, which held that ex-presidents have immunity for official acts but not for personal actions.
Jackson's call for an enforceable ethics code reflects a growing demand for greater transparency and accountability in the judicial branch. It aligns with the public's expectation that Supreme Court justices should be held to the highest ethical standards and that the court should operate with unwavering integrity.
The Supreme Court's public image has been tarnished by recent controversies, and restoring trust in the institution is paramount. By embracing ethical reforms and ensuring the impartiality of its justices, the court can regain the confidence of the American people and uphold its role as an independent and impartial arbiter of justice.
