In 1981, Ronald Reagan’s likely nominee for the new vacancy on the Supreme Court was a name unknown to many – Sandra Day O’Connor. Recalling the period, Stephen Carter, a law clerk for Justice Thurgood Marshall at the time, stated they struggled to find any substantial information on O’Connor’s previous judgements.
This obscurity, however, did not last long. As time passed, Sandra Day O’Connor not only came into the limelight but also went on to become one of the most respected and cherished justices. Her legacy can be encapsulated in how she listened – a trait that seemed to underscore her role as a justice and her impact on those around her.
That she came to be so admired and influential, despite a relatively unknown profile at the onset of her Supreme Court career, is a testament to her skills and capabilities.
The story of Sandra Day O’Connor and her illustrious legacy is detailed comprehensively by Stephen Carter, providing invaluable context from someone who had a front-row seat in observing O’Connor’s rise and contributions to the legal field – a must-read for all legal professionals interested in the inner workings of the Supreme Court and the making of a remarkable Justice. The intriguing account can be accessed here.