A historic Supreme Court confirmation

By Olivia Troye, Chief Strategy Officer

The elevation of Ketanji Brown Jackson to the U.S. Supreme Court yesterday (though not officially until June) is a cause for celebration, and I say that as someone who generally identifies politically as center-right. Here’s why. First and foremost, Judge Jackson is eminently qualified to serve on the high court. Note that “qualified” does not mean “she agrees with me on every possible issue”—and nor should it. Our lawmakers, regardless of political affiliation, should be able to recognize in any nominee for appointed office the skills and experience they will bring to the role. Often, that experience will shape a nominee’s views and decisions in different ways than our own, but in a pluralistic country like ours, we should strive for that. That is a strength, not a weakness.

Which brings me to the second reason I’m celebrating Judge Jackson’s confirmation. As the first Black female Supreme Court justice, she will represent a constituency that has long been underrepresented in the halls of American power. We the People are only truly represented when we are all represented. Lastly, I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the three Republicans who had the backbone in this polarized political climate to confirm Judge Jackson. Kudos to Sens. Susan Collins, Lisa Murkowski, and Mitt Romney for making a fair and thoughtful decision. Congratulations, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson.

Read more in The Topline on Substack