Chief Justice Roberts

Official portrait of U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts.

A New Look at the Chief.

The New York Times’ Adam Liptak examines the 2019-2020 Supreme Court term and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in general. Chief Justice John Roberts was appointed by President George W. Bush. He has now served in the position for over 12 years and is now considered by most court observers to be the swing justice. Read the story and then answer the questions that follow.

A review of the Roberts’ Court (New York Times)

 

Questions for Completion:

1. Why is Chief Justice Roberts considered the most powerful Chief since 1937, according to the article?

2. In what recent court cases can liberals find praise for the Republican-appointed chief? Where can conservatives?

3. In your opinion does a Supreme Court Justice owe any loyalty to the President or the Party of the President that appointed him?