David S. Tatel

David Tatel, a former civil rights lawyer and judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals, shares his insights on the current state of democracy and the Supreme Court's recent rulings. He reflects on how flawed judicial reasoning threatens key democratic principles and discusses the challenges courts face today. Tatel offers a personal perspective on living with blindness while serving in a complex judicial system, emphasizing the importance of judicial integrity and the role of personal experiences in shaping his views on justice.

Judge David S. Tatel, a distinguished former civil rights attorney and judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, shares his compelling journey. He discusses the connections between scientific reasoning and judicial decision-making, and vividly recounts pivotal civil rights battles, including those fought by the NAACP. Tatel opens up about his experience with blindness, the meaningful role of his guide dog, and the importance of impartiality in the judiciary while reflecting on voting rights and personal identity. His insights blend justice with personal growth.

Nancy Gertner, a retired U.S. District Court judge and Harvard Law lecturer, joins Kedric Payne, ethics expert at the Campaign Legal Center, and David Tatel, a retired D.C. Circuit judge and author, to dissect the Supreme Court's current controversies. They explore ethical lapses among justices, the implications of Trump’s immunity case, and the urgent need for an enforceable code of ethics. The discussion highlights the intersection of judicial integrity and political accountability, revealing the challenges facing the Court amid rising public skepticism.