AP’s long-time Supreme Court reporter Mark Sherman reflects on front row seat to legal history
Summary
Mark Sherman, who reported on the U.S. Supreme Court for 20 years, retired on the last day of the 2026 court term. He reflects on how the court has shifted strongly to the right over time due to unexpected events, political actions, and the influence of President Donald Trump.Key Facts
- Mark Sherman covered the Supreme Court for The Associated Press for 20 years before retiring in 2026.
- Early in his career, the court’s center moved slightly right from Justice Sandra Day O’Connor to Anthony Kennedy.
- Justice Stephen Breyer expressed frustration during a 5-4 conservative majority ruling on school integration.
- The court’s move to the right intensified after Justice Antonin Scalia died in 2016.
- Democrats hoped Scalia’s seat would shift the court left, but Republicans blocked their nominee.
- The rise of President Donald Trump helped create a conservative supermajority on the court.
- Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg expressed hope for a female Democratic president to fill several court vacancies, which did not happen.
- This court shift has affected major issues like abortion rights, campaign finance, and affirmative action.
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