Supreme Court Justice under fire for Anti-ICE activities
By Easton Martin | February 3, 2025
Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson attended the Grammys to celebrate her audiobook nomination. During the event, the venue shifted focus from an awards ceremony to political advocacy. Performers on stage shouted “ICE out!” in a direct call to dismantle Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Reports indicate Justice Jackson stood and applauded during this segment.
This raises significant ethical concerns regarding judicial impartiality. The Code of Conduct for United States Judges emphasizes that judges must avoid political activity to maintain public trust. Applause for a call to dismantle a federal law enforcement agency constitutes an endorsement of a specific policy position. This is particularly problematic because ICE frequently appears as a party in cases before the Supreme Court.
The Supreme Court requires its members to remain neutral on matters of public controversy. By participating in the ovation, Justice Jackson created a perceived conflict of interest for future immigration cases. Litigants representing the government or ICE agents now face a magistrate who has publicly supported the elimination of their department.
A sitting justice must prioritize the integrity of the institution over social approval. Remaining seated would have preserved the necessary appearance of neutrality. Let’s be honest though, it’s pretty clear that Justice Jackson has brought her liberalism to the bench, long before the Grammys.
