Justice Amy Coney Barrett has recently emphasized the importance of the U.S. Supreme Court demonstrating its commitment to impartiality and adherence to the law to bolster public trust. Speaking at a judicial conference in Wisconsin, Barrett stated, “Public scrutiny is welcome,” highlighting the role of increased civics education in fostering understanding of the Court’s work. She acknowledged the challenges posed by the modern media landscape, noting that the constant flow of information can lead to both engagement and misimpressions about the Court’s decisions.
In a subsequent appearance at the University of Minnesota Law School, Barrett expressed support for the Supreme Court adopting a formal code of conduct. She remarked, “I think it would be a good idea for us to do it, particularly so that we can communicate to the public exactly what it is that we’re doing—in a clearer way than perhaps we have been able to do so far.” This statement aligns with the Court’s recent adoption of its first-ever Code of Conduct on November 13, 2023, which outlines ethical guidelines for the justices.
Barrett’s comments come amid a period of heightened scrutiny and declining public trust in the Supreme Court, following a series of contentious rulings and ethical concerns involving some justices. By advocating for transparency and ethical standards, Barrett aims to address these concerns and reinforce the Court’s commitment to impartiality and the rule of law.