Remembering Justice David H. Souter: A Surprise Liberal on the Supreme Court
Retired Supreme Court Justice David H. Souter, known for his surprise shift to the court's liberal wing, has passed away at 85.
Summary
David H. Souter, who served nearly twenty years on the Supreme Court, passed away at 85. Appointed by President George H.W. Bush, he unexpectedly became a key liberal vote, influencing landmark decisions on abortion and civil rights. Souter remained a private figure, shunning Washington's social scene, preferring to return to his beloved New Hampshire after retirement. His legacy includes notable contributions to judicial thought and warnings about ignorance in democracy, reflecting a life dedicated to public service and intellectual rigor.
Articles (14)
- Souter was a surprise to conservatives, who had hoped he would be a solid conservative vote. Instead, he became a reliable vote for liberal positions, particularly on abortion and church-state separation.
- His dissenting opinion in Bush v. Gore showcased his belief in the necessity of a fair legal process, even within a contentious election.
- Souter's frugal lifestyle and aversion to the political scene stood in contrast to many of his contemporaries, allowing him to remain grounded and focused on his judicial duties.
CNN·23d· "…Bush's advisers assured the president that Souter would move the court to the right — a misreading that continues to reverberate today."
The Guardian·23d· "…Souter’s conservatism, however, was moderate, and hardliners were dismayed by his 1992 Roe v Wade affirmation."
MSNBC·23d· "…Today, the court is more precisely split along party lines."
Boston Globe·23d· "…Souter was a reliably liberal vote on abortion, church-state relations, freedom of expression and the accessibility of federal courts."
PBS NewsHour·23d· "…In retirement, Souter warned that ignorance of how government works could undermine American democracy."