Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson Touts the Primacy of the Constitution: ‘No one is above the law’
Chicago Event
U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson spoke about the importance of the Constitution and the protection of rights in remarks at a South Side Church Wednesday night. “The Constitution is our founding creed,” Jackson said at the House of Hope Arena in Pullman at an event hosted by Salem Baptist Church of Chicago to promote her new memoir, “Lovely One.” “A free country, a democratic country, is one in which no one is above the law.”
Background
Though she made it clear she was speaking in general terms, Jackson’s comments were delivered against the backdrop of President Donald Trump’s recent efforts to push the limits of presidential power. In the first weeks of his new administration, Trump signed a flurry of executive orders halting federal programs, freezing federal funding, overturning birthright citizenship, and terminating some federal workers. However, many of Trump’s proposals have been put on hold by federal judges as his opponents file lawsuits pushing back against his orders. Some observers have wondered what will happen if Trump attempts to ignore any court rulings, which some of his advisers have hinted he should do.
Trump’s Comments
“He who saves his Country does not violate any Law,” Trump said Saturday on his personal Twitter account, suggesting the law does not apply to him. But on Tuesday, Trump, who has been openly critical of the courts, said he would comply with court rulings on his policies. “I always abide by the courts,” he said.
Jackson’s Message
Jackson, who is one of three liberals on the Supreme Court, didn’t comment on the possibility that any of the cases could wind up before her on appeal. However, she encouraged everyone in the audience to know their rights and stay informed about what was happening in the government. “The 14th Amendment in particular, which is the due process clause and the equal protection clause, are the amendment that guarantees that people are treated equally regardless of their skin color, or image, or anything else,” she said. “In a democracy, we need informed citizens who know what’s going on.”
About Justice Jackson
Jackson was appointed as a Supreme Court Justice in 2022 by former President Joe Biden. In her book, Jackson recounts her experience during the confirmation hearings and reflects on her journey to becoming the first Black woman on the nation’s highest court. “I have such deep-seated self-confidence that comes from people around me, who have always told me I could accomplish anything,” said Jackson.
Conclusion
Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson’s remarks serve as a timely reminder of the importance of the Constitution and the protection of rights. As the country continues to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing political landscape, it is crucial that citizens remain informed and engaged.
FAQs
Q: What did Justice Jackson say about the Constitution?
A: Jackson said, “The Constitution is our founding creed. A free country, a democratic country, is one in which no one is above the law.”
Q: What was the context of Justice Jackson’s remarks?
A: Jackson’s comments were delivered against the backdrop of President Donald Trump’s recent efforts to push the limits of presidential power.
Q: What did Trump say about the law?
A: Trump said, “He who saves his Country does not violate any Law,” and later stated that he would comply with court rulings on his policies, saying, “I always abide by the courts.”
