Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson expressed concern over public perception of Supreme Court as political during interview with Colbert, emphasizing importance of public trust.
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson graced the late-night show of Stephen Colbert on Tuesday, sharing her insights on the Supreme Court and her thoughts on the recent Trump immunity controversy. Addressing concerns over the high court being perceived as political, Jackson conveyed the significance of public trust in ensuring the smooth functioning of the judicial system.
"I think it's problematic for the court that that's a perception that the public has, because we really rely on public trust in order to do our jobs," Jackson asserted. She underscored the significance of integrity and impartiality in judicial decision-making, emphasizing that her personal views and those of the law must remain distinct.
Supreme Court Justice Jackson: Political Perception is 'Problematic'
Jackson's clarity on separating personal beliefs from legal obligations stems from her experience as a law clerk for Justice Breyer. She explained that legal training inherently involves the ability to draft opinions for judges, even if one may not fully agree with the stance. "You learn how to separate out your own views from that of the law and the things that you're working on," she stated.
Asked by Colbert whether she believed all Supreme Court justices shared this perspective, Jackson confidently affirmed, "Yes, I am." To which Colbert jested, "I don't know why that's a joke to you people. It's a simple question."
Supreme Court Justice Jackson: Political Perception is 'Problematic'
In a recent CBS News interview, Jackson voiced her concerns surrounding the court's majority opinion in the Trump immunity case. "I was concerned about a system that appeared to provide immunity for one individual under one set of circumstances, when we have a criminal justice system that had ordinarily treated everyone the same," she remarked.
The Supreme Court's ruling in July granted former presidents immunity from prosecution for official acts committed while in office but maintained their vulnerability to prosecution for unofficial acts.
Supreme Court Justice Jackson: Political Perception is 'Problematic'
Jackson also expressed support for an enforceable code of ethics for Supreme Court justices, stressing the importance of transparency and impartiality. "It's important, in my view, to do so. It really boils down to impartiality. That's what the rules are about. People are entitled to know if you're accepting gifts as a judge, so that they can evaluate whether or not your opinions are impartial," she emphasized.
Justice Jackson's interview with Colbert and her previous remarks to CBS News reflect her commitment to a justice system founded on impartiality, transparency, and the preservation of public trust. Her perspective adds a unique viewpoint to the ongoing discourse surrounding the Supreme Court, its role in society, and the crucial balance between personal beliefs and legal rulings.
