Amy Coney Barrett taught for nearly 20 years at Notre Dame before becoming a Supreme Court Justice in 2020. While she’s moved from teaching to judging, she still runs a weeklong seminar on Constitutional Law each year.
In her first televised interview since taking the position, Barrett was asked about the Court’s political leanings. She responded, “Labels like ‘right’ or ‘left’ are for others to decide. I focus on the cases.” She noted she has faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum.
Barrett shares her journey and legal views in her new book, “Listening to the Law,” which was released on September 9. In the book, she reflects on how challenging the past five years have been. “I miss my old life, in South Bend, surrounded by long-time friends,” she wrote.
Despite the difficulties, Barrett has no regrets about joining the Court. She stated, “It’s important work, and I’m proud to serve.” She expressed a sense of gratitude for her life in Washington while also cherishing her previous life.
Barrett is often viewed as a highly influential member of the Court. One of her landmark decisions was her vote to overturn Roe v. Wade in the 2022 Dobbs case, which erased nearly 50 years of established abortion rights. In response to concerns about how this decision might affect other related medical practices, Barrett explained, “These are democratic issues left for the states to decide.”
Critics worry about potential impacts on other rights, such as same-sex marriage. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton voiced her concern about the Court potentially reversing progress made in this area. Barrett remarked, “Criticism comes from many quarters, but we must focus on the legal issues at hand.” She emphasized that fundamental rights like marriage and family are safeguarded by the Court’s doctrine.
Currently, the Court faces cases related to former President Trump’s executive actions. Some observers argue that the Court isn’t adequately checking his expansion of presidential power. Barrett clarified, “Our role is to decide legal questions, not to form political opinions.”
Regarding Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops and other policies, Barrett stated that she must wait for specific cases to evaluate their legality. “Every decision relies on the facts at hand,” she emphasized.
As the most scrutinized justice, Barrett’s views and decisions are closely followed. She remains focused on her work and the implications of her rulings for future cases. Reflecting on her lifetime appointment, Barrett joked, “I may feel older, but I’m not thinking about retirement just yet.”
For more insights from Barrett, consider checking her book, “Listening to the Law.” It delves deeper into her legal philosophy and personal experiences.
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Supreme Court of the United States, Amy Coney Barrett
