Amy Coney Barrett on Her Journey from Teaching to the Supreme Court
Amy Coney Barrett, who once used to teach full-time at a university in South Bend, Indiana, now holds one of the most influential positions in the country. She was chosen to serve on the Supreme Court, where she has been making significant decisions and has become a prominent figure. Although she now spends her time in the courtroom, she still finds time to teach a weeklong seminar on Constitutional Law.
Barrett's Stance on the Supreme Court's Political Leanings
Since she has taken the place of the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, many have wondered if the Supreme Court has taken a turn towards the right. However, Barrett dismisses these speculations, arguing that labeling the court as leaning towards the right or the left is not her game. She simply focuses on deciding the cases that come her way and has received criticism from both ends of the political spectrum.
The Influence of Barrett in the Supreme Court
Barrett, a 53-year-old mother of seven, has been described as the most influential justice on the court today. One of her most significant decisions was her vote to overturn Roe v. Wade in a recent controversial case, challenging nearly 50 years of precedent surrounding the right to an abortion.
However, Barrett clarifies that this decision did not make abortion illegal or pass judgment on its morality. Instead, it left these questions to the states. She explains that these kinds of decisions, which require medical judgments, are not ones that our Constitution connects to the courts to decide how far into pregnancy the right of abortion might extend.
Questions Regarding the Expansion of Executive Power
There have been concerns about the Supreme Court allowing the president’s policies, including on immigration and federal worker layoffs, to temporarily go into effect. Barrett, however, maintains that their job is to decide the legal questions, not to form a political view. She emphasizes that their focus is on getting the law right.
On the subject of the president's deployment of National Guard troops in U.S. cities, Barrett refrains from commenting as this is a matter likely to come before the court. She explains that judges must approach legal issues with an open mind, considering a specific set of facts and listening to various perspectives before making a decision.
A Look at Barrett's Legal Philosophy
In her new book, "Listening to the Law," Barrett delves into her legal philosophy and personal journey. She does not regret her decision to join the Supreme Court and feels proud to serve. The book highlights the right to marry, engage in sexual intimacy, use birth control, and raise children as fundamental.
Despite being in the spotlight, Barrett finds joy in her old life and cherishes time spent with friends who knew her before she became a justice. She admits that the past five years have not been easy since joining the Supreme Court but believes in the importance of the work she does.
Looking Forward
As a scholar of the Constitution, Barrett's decisions and views will continue to be closely watched in the upcoming term and for years to come. When asked about her lifetime appointment, she laughs and says she's not thinking about retirement just yet.