UPDATE: Legal analyst Joyce Vance has issued a scathing critique of the U.S. Supreme Court, claiming that many justices have failed to step up during this critical period in American history. In her latest Substack post, “Civil Discourse,” Vance emphasizes the urgent need for the Court’s leadership amid rising political pressures and public skepticism, especially as Donald Trump embarks on his second administration.
The 2025 year-end report from Chief Justice John Roberts has intensified discussions regarding judicial independence, with Vance arguing that the justices’ absence has been glaringly felt. The report, released on Friday, reflects on historical principles but notably sidesteps recent political conflicts, including Trump’s aggressive rhetoric against the judiciary.
Vance highlights a particularly striking image included in the report: an empty room, which she argues symbolizes the current state of the Supreme Court. “The past decade has made it clear that our institutions are only as strong as the people in them,” Vance asserts. “That makes this photo a startling choice… It’s a marker for what has become increasingly clear: that the majority on this Court has failed to show up in a moment when their institutional voice is desperately needed.”
Roberts’ report references the words of President Calvin Coolidge, emphasizing the importance of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution amid partisan strife. However, Vance criticizes Roberts for not addressing Trump’s recent calls for the impeachment of federal judges, stating, “Instead of cloaking himself in the mantle of history and self-righteousness, a little plain, unambiguous truth would have done so much.”
Former U.S. attorney Barbara McQuade echoed Vance’s sentiments, expressing disappointment that Roberts did not more forcefully advocate for judicial independence in light of escalating threats to judges. While she appreciated his historical references, she stated, “I thought he buried the lead.”
As the nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026, the Supreme Court’s docket is set to include significant cases involving presidential authority and immigration limits. Observers are eager to see how the Court will navigate these politically charged issues moving forward.
The implications of this ongoing discourse are profound, as the judiciary’s role in maintaining democracy is called into question. With the stakes higher than ever, the next steps for the Supreme Court are critical not only for legal interpretation but also for restoring public confidence in the judicial system.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the Supreme Court grapples with its responsibilities amid a turbulent political landscape.
