The NPR Politics Podcast Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer To Retire
Jan 26, 2022
Justice Stephen Breyer's retirement sparks discussions on President Biden's first opportunity to appoint a new Supreme Court justice. He has committed to nominating an African American woman, fueling excitement for candidates like Ketanji Brown Jackson and Leandra Kruger. The episode dives into Breyer's legacy as a moderate voice amid a conservative court and examines the political dynamics surrounding this pivotal moment. Also explored are the challenges the Biden administration may face in navigating the nomination process and the implications for the Supreme Court's future.
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Strategic Retirement
- Justice Breyer's retirement timing is likely strategic, influenced by the Democrats' slim Senate majority.
- Retiring now allows ample time for confirmation before potential political shifts.
Potential Nominees
- President Biden has pledged to nominate an African American woman, highlighting potential candidates like Ketanji Brown Jackson and Leandra Kruger.
- Both possess strong credentials, including clerkships at the Supreme Court, and are highly regarded.
Breyer's Legacy
- Justice Breyer, a moderate liberal, was known for his consensus-building approach.
- However, the growing conservative supermajority limited his influence.