Former Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer recently shared his thoughts on the possibility of the Supreme Court one day overruling its 2022 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health, which overturned Roe v. Wade. Breyer acknowledged that it is “possible” but also expressed uncertainty by saying, “But who knows?” This contemplation of the potential reversal of such a significant decision showcases the complexity and evolution of legal interpretations over time.
During his interview with moderator Kristen Welker on NBC News’ “Meet the Press,” Breyer also addressed the leak of the majority’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which occurred several weeks before the official ruling. He characterized the leak as “unfortunate,” highlighting the importance of maintaining confidentiality and integrity within the judicial process.
When questioned about cases involving former President Donald Trump, Breyer opted not to offer any opinions or comments. One such case raised the issue of presidential immunity from criminal prosecution related to the 2020 election. Breyer cited his lack of sufficient information to form an opinion and emphasized the potential pitfalls of prematurely expressing initial views. His deliberate approach to refraining from commentary underscores the nuanced and careful considerations required in judicial decision-making.
Drawing from his extensive experience on the Supreme Court, Breyer recalled his involvement in evaluating consequential cases during presidential election years. In particular, he referenced his role in the Bush v. Gore case in 2000, where he agreed with a majority decision on the constitutionality of recounting ballots in Florida but dissented on the issue of conducting a recount within the time constraints. Breyer’s reflections highlight the complexity of balancing legal principles with practical implications in cases with significant political ramifications.
In anticipation of the release of his book “Reading the Constitution: Why I Chose Pragmatism, Not Textualism,” Breyer delved into his critique of an originalist interpretation of the Constitution. He expressed skepticism towards textualism, describing it as “simple” on the surface but ultimately inadequate in practice. Breyer’s thoughtful exploration of different legal philosophies underscores the ongoing debate within the legal community regarding the most effective approaches to interpreting constitutional law.
Overall, former Justice Stephen Breyer’s reflections offer valuable insights into the complexities of legal decision-making, the importance of maintaining judicial integrity, and the ongoing evolution of legal interpretation in the United States. His nuanced perspectives serve as a reminder of the careful considerations and critical reflections required in navigating complex legal issues at the highest levels of the judiciary.