The atmosphere inside the Supreme Court on Monday morning was filled with tension and anticipation as the justices delivered some of the most eagerly awaited decisions of the term. Justice Amy Coney Barrett set the tone with a quip before delivering the court’s first majority opinion of the day in a case about suing over regulations, which was not the case most observers were waiting for regarding the scope and limits of presidential immunity.
Among the audience was Michael Dreeben, a former solicitor general who argued for the government in the immunity case. As Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. delivered the majority opinion ruling against him, Dreeben maintained a calm demeanor, taking notes and twiddling his pen. The presence of Justice Brett M. Kavanaugh’s parents and Jane Roberts, the wife of Chief Justice Roberts, added to the significance of the day.
Chief Justice Roberts preemptively addressed potential criticism of the ruling by emphasizing that presidential immunity has limits and is meant to protect the presidency, not any specific president. Justice Sonia Sotomayor sharply countered in her dissent, expressing deep disagreement with the majority and highlighting her concerns for democracy.
The court then wrapped up the term on a lighter note, with Chief Justice Roberts recognizing retiring workers for their service in a moment of light-hearted misspeaking that drew laughter from the audience. As the justices filed out at the end of the day, marking the official end of business until the new term in the fall, the audience rose in respect.
Linda Qiu, a seasoned reporter specializing in fact-checking statements made by politicians and public figures, provided insights and context to the day’s events. With nearly a decade of experience in reporting and fact-checking, Qiu brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her coverage of significant moments in the Supreme Court and beyond.