This is unacceptable.
A Democratic candidate seeking a U.S. Senate seat in Michigan is facing mounting criticism after a video resurfaced showing her discussing an aggressive reaction toward sitting Supreme Court justices—remarks that many conservatives say reflect a troubling attitude toward America’s highest court.
State Sen. Mallory McMorrow, a contender in the Democratic Senate primary, became the focus of backlash after comments she made at a progressive activist gathering last month spread rapidly online.
During the event, an audience member questioned whether there was “any sense” in working with the Supreme Court, blaming the institution for a range of political outcomes. McMorrow’s response drew immediate attention.
She told attendees that she was personally angered by Justice Amy Coney Barrett’s background, noting that Barrett graduated from Notre Dame, McMorrow’s own alma mater. McMorrow then referenced a story about Justices Barrett and Brett Kavanaugh being seen at a public tailgate.
According to McMorrow, had she encountered them herself, she believed she would have struggled to control her emotions, suggesting the situation could have escalated into a public confrontation.
The remarks quickly spread across social media, where critics argued that public officials and candidates should exercise restraint—especially when discussing members of the judiciary, who have faced increased security concerns in recent years.
Conservative commentators and political organizations condemned the tone of the comments, saying they reflect a broader pattern of hostility toward the Supreme Court from the political left. Several questioned whether such rhetoric is appropriate for someone seeking national office.
Others warned that casual talk about confronting justices in public—even in jest—can contribute to an already tense political environment and undermine respect for the rule of law.
The McMorrow campaign did not respond to multiple media requests seeking clarification or comment on the video.
Online reactions also drew comparisons to past statements made by prominent Democratic leaders that were widely criticized for appearing to pressure or intimidate conservative justices during contentious political debates. While those remarks were later walked back, critics say they set a damaging precedent.
This is not the first time McMorrow has come under scrutiny during the current election cycle.
Earlier this fall, she appeared at a Michigan Democratic event where signs displayed by attendees equated supporters of President Donald Trump with extremist groups. One sign included coded language that some observers interpreted as inappropriate or inflammatory.
At the time, a campaign spokesperson acknowledged the sign was unacceptable and emphasized the importance of choosing words and imagery carefully, particularly during a period of heightened political tension.
McMorrow has also drawn criticism for her associations with far-left activists during fundraising efforts, including individuals known for inflammatory political commentary.
The renewed attention surrounding her remarks comes amid broader concerns about the public treatment of government officials. Just days ago, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was confronted while dining at a Washington, D.C. restaurant by activists who loudly accused him of responsibility for global suffering tied to U.S. economic policies.
For many conservatives, these incidents point to a growing trend: political rhetoric that increasingly spills beyond protests and speeches into everyday public spaces.
As the Michigan Senate race intensifies, critics argue voters should closely examine not just policy positions, but also a candidate’s temperament and respect for America’s institutions—especially at a time when public trust and civic stability are already under strain.
