Amarica's Constitution A Judicious Life, Part One - Special Guests Dean Heather Gerken and Judge Kevin Newsom
May 15, 2025
Join Dean Heather Gerken, a prominent law professor at Yale, and Judge Kevin Newsom, a U.S. Court of Appeals judge, as they share heartfelt reflections on Justice David Souter's legacy. Both former clerks for Souter, they discuss his profound influence on their careers and the legal world. The conversation touches on Souter’s commitment to judicial humility, his mentoring style, and how his unique character shaped modern jurisprudence. Their personal anecdotes reveal why Souter is revered as one of the greats in American history.
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Souter's Legacy Beyond Opinions
- Justice Souter lacked a singular landmark opinion but was respected for his judicial temperament and character.
- His legacy lies more in humility and judicial independence than in bold legal theories or opinions.
Souter and Political Realignment
- Justice Souter's judicial tenure reflected a political realignment where many Republican appointees voted more like Democrats over time.
- This shift illustrates the complexity of judicial independence beyond partisan appointments.
Justice Souter's Clerkship Surprise
- Kevin Newsom shares a memorable story about how he unexpectedly secured his clerkship with Justice Souter after initially receiving a rejection note.
- Justice Souter personally called Newsom after a Supreme Court case involving Newsom's firm to offer him the clerkship.