Proposal Calls for Regular Supreme Court Press Conferences to Boost Transparency

A legal scholar argues that the Supreme Court should schedule periodic televised press briefings, allowing justices to address non-case topics while avoiding commentary on pending matters.

In a new essay, a law professor proposes that the Supreme Court adopt a schedule of televised press conferences, featuring different justices on a rotating basis. The briefings would be open to the established court press corps and newer media platforms, yet would prohibit any commentary on pending litigation or remarks that might necessitate a recusal. The piece highlights that greater openness could reduce leaks, noting past congressional questioning of Justices Kagan and Barrett about the Dobbs leak.

It also critiques Chief Justice Roberts for speaking out selectively on issues like judicial impeachment while remaining silent on earlier leaks. Historical examples, such as the 2011 joint testimony of Justices Scalia and Breyer before the Senate Judiciary Committee, are used to argue that the court can speak more broadly beyond budget hearings. The author concludes that recent performances by Kagan and Barrett strengthen the case for regular press engagements.