Here’s what happened.
Retired Supreme Court Justice David H. Souter, appointed by President George H.W. Bush, passed away Thursday at his home in New Hampshire at the age of 85, the Supreme Court confirmed Friday. His nearly 20 years on the bench left a lasting impact on America’s legal system—though his rulings often surprised those who supported his nomination.
A Conservative Appointee Who Voted Liberal
Justice Souter was nominated in 1990 by President Bush, who believed he was appointing a justice with constitutionalist leanings. However, Souter quickly aligned with the liberal wing of the Court, becoming a consistent vote in favor of abortion rights, church-state separation, and expanded federal court access.
His rulings often disappointed conservatives, revealing how crucial every Supreme Court pick truly is—especially as America’s values are tested in the courts.
Souter retired in 2009, allowing President Barack Obama to nominate Sonia Sotomayor, further solidifying a leftward shift in the Court during a pivotal time in U.S. history.
Honored by the Court, Remembered by History
Chief Justice John Roberts released a statement Friday, calling Souter a man of “wisdom and kindness” and recognizing his post-retirement contributions to the First Circuit Court of Appeals and civics education in New Hampshire.
“Justice Souter served the Court and our country with great distinction,” Roberts said.
From Harvard to the High Court
Born in Melrose, Massachusetts on September 17, 1939, David Souter graduated from Harvard University, earned a degree from Oxford, and received his law degree from Harvard Law School. His legal career advanced rapidly—from New Hampshire Attorney General in 1976 to a series of judicial appointments, eventually landing him on the U.S. Court of Appeals in 1990, and shortly after, the U.S. Supreme Court.
Fast Fact: While Souter remained largely private, his quiet life in New Hampshire after retirement stood in sharp contrast to today’s politically outspoken legal figures.
A Legacy That Still Sparks Debate
Despite his conservative appointment, Souter’s record has been praised by progressives and criticized by many constitutional originalists. His death reignites conversations about the importance of vetting Supreme Court justices and how their decisions influence everything from the Second Amendment to religious liberty.
As the nation reflects on Justice Souter’s life, it serves as a reminder: elections—and judicial nominations—have consequences.
