David Souter: A Look Back at the Life and Career of the Former Supreme Court Justice

Passing of Justice David Souter

• 🕊️ Retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter has died at his home in New Hampshire at the age of 85.
• 🗓️ The court announced his passing on Thursday.

Judicial Career and Nomination

• 🏛️ Souter was nominated to the Supreme Court by President George H.W. Bush in 1990, succeeding Justice William Brennan.
• ✅ He was confirmed by Congress in the same year he was nominated.
• ⚖️ During his 19 years on the court, Souter was characterized as a moderate justice, occasionally aligning with the liberal wing despite his Republican nomination.

Key Decisions and Personal Habits

• 📌 In 1992, Souter was part of the majority that upheld Roe v. Wade.
• 📊 He was in the minority opinion in the 2000 Bush v. Gore case, which ultimately allowed George W. Bush to become president.
• 🍎 Souter was also known for his simple personal habits, including not using a computer and eating the same lunch daily: plain yogurt and an apple.

Retirement and Legacy

• 🔌 Souter announced his retirement from the court in 2009.
• 🧑‍⚖️ He was succeeded by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, nominated by President Obama.
• 🙏 Chief Justice John Roberts remembered Souter for bringing uncommon wisdom and kindness to his public service.