Ketanji Brown Jackson, the newly appointed Supreme Court Justice, marked her debut with a powerful presence. She engaged in the case concerning First Amendment rights of business owners by asking incisive questions. Her approach involved challenging both sides involved in the case.
The case, Cutter v. Wilkinson, revolves around a Colorado law that forbids discrimination against gay and transgender individuals in public accommodations. A group of business owners contested the law, arguing that it infringed upon their First Amendment rights by compelling them to serve customers with differing views.
During the oral arguments, Jackson was the first justice to raise questions. She delved into the business owners’ arguments and scrutinized the government’s stance on the case.
In one particular exchange, Jackson inquired whether the law would require a Muslim baker to create a cake for a same-sex wedding. The lawyer representing the business owners claimed it would not, but Jackson persisted, seeking assurance on the matter.
Additionally, Jackson questioned the government’s lawyer about the historical context of the First Amendment and its safeguarding of free speech. She probed whether the government’s position implied that individuals could be compelled to express opinions contrary to their own.
The lawyer for the business owners contended that the law violated the First Amendment since it forced them to convey a message they disagreed with. Conversely, the government’s lawyer argued that the law constituted a reasonable regulation necessary to safeguard the rights of gay and transgender individuals.
A ruling from the Supreme Court on the case is expected in the coming months.
Legal observers widely praised Jackson’s performance on Monday. Stephen Vladeck, a law professor at the University of Texas, remarked, “She was very impressive. She posed challenging questions, demonstrated thoughtfulness, and appeared fully engaged in the case.”
Jackson’s debut on the Supreme Court foreshadows her future influence. Anticipated to be a formidable presence on the court, she will undoubtedly make her voice heard on a broad range of significant issues.
