When questioned about President Biden's Supreme Court reform proposals, Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch voiced a stern warning about maintaining judicial independence.
During an interview with Fox News Sunday host Shannon Bream, Gorsuch discussed the importance of an independent judiciary and the complex U.S. legal system.
President Biden recently proposed several reforms, including implementing term limits, a code of conduct for justices, and restrictions on presidential immunity. These suggestions, revealed by a White House official in late July, aim to enhance accountability and transparency within the highest court.
Gorsuch refrained from delving deeply into Biden's proposals. He remarked, "I did not want to get into what is now a political issue during a presidential election year," emphasizing the need to avoid politicizing the judiciary. He cautioned about the delicate balance required to protect judicial independence, especially during periods of heightened political scrutiny.
Addressing the essence of judicial impartiality, Gorsuch highlighted its significance for all citizens, especially those facing government scrutiny.
He stated, "It's there for the moments when the spotlight's on you, when the government's coming after you. And don't you want a ferociously independent judge and a jury of your peers to make those decisions? Isn't that your right as an American? And so I just say, be careful."
Furthermore, Gorsuch's comments extended beyond the courtroom to discuss the broader implications of an independent judiciary. He referenced the need for Americans to trust one another and resolve differences outside of government intervention, echoing sentiments for a more community-focused approach to problem-solving.
Gorsuch turned the discussion to the overwhelming number of laws in the United States. He articulated that both citizens and government officials struggle to keep up with the extensive legal code. "We need laws to keep us free and safe, but having too many has resulted in people committing violations without even meaning to do something wrong," he explained.
In his book "Over Ruled: The Human Toll of Too Much Law," co-authored by Gorsuch, he elaborates on how the intricate web of legal requirements often ensnares ordinary Americans unintentionally. His critique underlined an ongoing concern where citizens inadvertently breach laws while attempting to lead regular lives.
To illustrate his point, Gorsuch cited issues with the IRS hotline, revealing, "It turns out for a period of time they were giving wrong answers about a third of the time." This example underscores the complexities within the tax code, highlighting a broader issue of accessibility and comprehensibility within U.S. laws.
In discussing potential conflicts with other branches of government, Gorsuch emphasized that his guiding principle remains the Constitution. "The answer is the Constitution," he stated unequivocally. His dedication to constitutional adherence anchors his judicial philosophy and approach to legal interpretations.
Gorsuch referenced a philosophy shared by his colleague, retired Justice Stephen Breyer, to bridge ideological divides. Gorsuch recalled, "My good friend [retired Justice] Stephen Breyer says, ‘If I listen to almost anyone talk for long enough, I’m gonna find something they say that we can agree on.' Maybe we should start there." This sentiment advocates for dialogues and finding common ground through conversation.
Justice Neil Gorsuch's comments on the proposed Supreme Court reforms come at a critical juncture. President Biden's suggestions aim to enhance accountability, but Gorsuch warns against politicizing the judiciary. He underscores the importance of judicial independence, the complexity of U.S. laws, and adherence to the Constitution in navigating conflicts. His reflections call for a balance between governmental oversight and community-driven problem-solving.
