Chief Justice

• Chief Justice John Roberts is navigating a complex judicial strategy that balances the Supreme Court's independence with the expansion of executive authority. • While the Court has occasionally defied former President Donald Trump, it has simultaneously issued rulings that broaden the scope of presidential power. • This approach reflects Roberts' "long game" to preserve the institutional legitimacy and prestige of the judiciary amidst intense political polarization.

• Chief Justice John Roberts navigated a tumultuous term by managing an unruly Supreme Court, facing off against the president, and building strategic coalitions. • Key rulings included a shift in the separation of powers, granting the president authority to fire leaders of independent agencies previously insulated by Congress. • The Court reaffirmed the constitutional principle of birthright citizenship, ruling that children born in the U.S. automatically become citizens with very few exceptions.

• Twenty-three political parties and an Independent MP have submitted a formal letter to Chief Justice Surya Kant regarding the Election Commission of India's (ECI) SIR process. • The communication urges the judiciary to intervene and scrutinize the ECI's actions, citing specific examples of how the SIR process has negatively impacted citizens across various states. • This collective action represents a broad Opposition push to seek judicial oversight when other democratic channels are perceived to have failed.

• Chief Justice John Roberts publicly criticized the intense rhetoric targeting the Supreme Court on May 6, 2026. • His remarks address growing partisan attacks amid high-profile rulings on elections and immunity. • The statement aims to defend judicial independence as public trust in the court hits historic lows.

Roberts did not name Donald Trump, but US president has decried ‘corrupt judges’ who ruled against himSign up for the Breaking News US email to get newsletter alerts in your inboxThe chief justice of the United States, John Roberts, said on Tuesday that hostility directed in personal terms at judges is “dangerous, and it’s got to stop”.The comment came just days after Donald Trump’s latest social media broadside against judges who have ruled against him and his administration. Continue reading...