Retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter, a figure whose liberal shift during his tenure sparked conservative outrage, died Thursday at age 85.
Souter's passing in New Hampshire, announced by the Supreme Court, marks the end of a judicial career that reshaped key precedential rulings, as The Hill reports, and though the former justice's demise was said to have occurred peacefully at his New Hampshire home, the Supreme Court itself provided no cause of death.
Born in New England, Souter’s early career reflected traditional values of hard work. A Rhodes Scholar and Harvard Law graduate, he began in private practice. Souter later served as a prosecutor in New Hampshire’s attorney general’s office.
Souter’s ascent in public service was steady. By 1976, he became New Hampshire’s state attorney general. Two years later, he joined the ranks of state court judges, laying the groundwork for higher judicial roles.
In the 1980s, Souter served on the New Hampshire Supreme Court. His reputation for diligence earned him an appointment to the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. This role preceded his nomination to the nation’s highest court.
Former President George H. W. Bush appointed Souter to the Supreme Court in 1990. Initially viewed as a conservative pick, Souter soon disappointed many on the right. His alignment with the court’s liberal wing became a flashpoint for critics.
Within two years, Souter joined a coalition upholding the core abortion holding in Roe v. Wade. This decision affirmed a constitutional right to abortion, infuriating conservatives. The phrase “No More Souters” became a Republican rallying cry.
Souter consistently sided with liberals on major issues. He supported affirmative action and took progressive stances on religious matters. His votes often clashed with traditionalist views, drawing criticism from working-class conservatives.
In the pivotal 2000 Bush v. Gore case, Souter was among four dissenters. He believed the majority’s ruling, which secured George W. Bush’s election win, was “crudely partisan.” This decision nearly prompted his resignation from the high court.
Despite his frustration, Souter remained on the court until 2009. He retired at 69, an unusually young age for a justice. His departure reflected a desire to escape Washington’s elitist circles.
After retiring, Souter returned to New England’s quieter lifestyle. He never married and maintained a low profile. Public appearances were rare, aligning with Souter's preference for privacy over celebrity.
Souter continued judicial work, hearing cases on the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. His commitment to public service persisted despite his retreat from the national stage. This work showcased his dedication to law over personal fame.
In 2012, Souter spoke out about a growing danger. “I don’t believe there is any problem of American politics in American public life which is more significant today than the pervasive civic ignorance of the Constitution,” he said. His words urged Americans to reclaim knowledge of their founding principles.
Current Chief Justice John Roberts praised Souter’s legacy. “Justice David Souter served our Court with great distinction for nearly twenty years,” Roberts said. “He brought uncommon wisdom and kindness to a lifetime of public service.”
Roberts also noted Souter’s post-retirement contributions. “After retiring to his beloved New Hampshire in 2009, he continued to render significant service to our branch,” Roberts said. Souter’s death leaves a void in judicial circles, but his liberal shift remains a cautionary tale for conservatives.
