Lawrence: Chief Justice Roberts reveals his shockingly shallow 'hardest decision'

During a speech at the American Law Institute, Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts said the hardest decision he's had to make during his 18-year tenure on the bench was “to erect fences and barricades around the Supreme Court.” MSNBC's Lawrence O'Donnell reacts to the Chief Justice's answer.
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#msnbc #supremecourt #johnroberts

[@nicholascazmay2126]

Good to know that putting up fences around his site of employment than protecting kids from getting shot to death or protect women from rapists.

[@virginiagrundman4012]

Here, hear😊😊

[@Mozart1220]

You can bet your last dollar that the Buildings THEY work in are "gun free zones".

[@jamesmedina2062]

its the story of our whole government. We should force all politicians to ride mass transit and fly coach. Why do we let them live in posh, protected luxury? Shame on us!

[@Juschillin2024]

Facts!

[@vintagepyro3692]

Bet that nimrod is a REGISTERED DOMESTIC TERRORIST DEMOCRAT OR REPUBLICAN TRAITOR. Thank God Americans have a right to defend ourselves from these domestic terrorists and their POLITICAL DOMESTIC TERRORIST attacks on Americans. DEMOCRATS AND REPUBLICANS commit and support acts of RIOTING, COMMITTING MASS SHOOTINGS AND BOMBINGS for their political AIMS. Only reason these TERRORISTS wants to take away guns is so THEY can help NEUTER AMERICANS and MAKE THEM VICTIMS OF THEIR POLITICAL TERRORIST WAR.

[@frenchqueen]

Bravo! So well put, Lawrence! That 10 year-old girl had to make a harder decision than John Roberts ever had to. Thank you for your bold and honest stance!

[@rochellestarr9538]

And the so called PRO LIFERS could care less that 10 year olds,die in childbirth

[@DDarkoBR]

Vote red

[@rochellestarr9538]

@@DDarkoBR A vote for Maga is a vote for Russia and Maga..2 in one!

[@DDarkoBR]

@@rochellestarr9538 That is fake News, very sad.

[@rodlamont3736]

Thank you 👍

[@zoer7338]

Wow. Just wow. Beautifully done Lawrence. What a sad state our "Supreme" Court is in. 😢

[@sleuthjill7653]

And he wonders why the Supreme Court has such a low approval rate!! If that was the hardest decision one would deem he is not suited for the position!!

[@SilverRainCain]

Right-wingers don't truly care about approval ratings. If they did, they wouldn't do things they know the majority of Americans would be against. They don't care about the majority, they care about having money and power to live as they want and do as they want. If that means selling out and becoming the tools of evil, then they'll do it, since in the end, for them -- it's all about themselves in the here and now.

[@marshwetland3808]

Start over and copy the Canadian Supreme Court system. Way better than the slimy US one.

[@DM-3956]

Supreme Court low approval rate??? Another Kool-Aid flavored fake news false narrariaitive for the easily manipulated.

[@OrlaQuirk]

Maybe all his other decisions have been decided for him. Could be. Just sayin'.

[@pameladavis7850]

Checkmate a ĺot of them bringing this country down 😢

[@nancydouglas8772]

Thanks for speaking about such an important issue. Great job. SCOTUS has lost so much respect of the American people.

[@TheDavidlloydjones]

But that's more Mitch McConnell's fault than Roberts's, IMHO, Nancy.

[@lawrenceleverton7426]

I only lost respect because a woman who couldn't define her own gender got Confirmed. But that's Brandon and your ilk, nothing surprises me with your group.

[@Eldritch-1]

Expand or abolish it.

[@justonlyjohn6596]

Just chiming in Gallop Supreme Court Polls from 2002 - 2022: APPROVAL: 62% - 40% DISAPPROVAL: 29% - 58% *These isolated, pampered dictators have run the Institution into the ground over just two decades.* I'm still confused how they could toss out the Voting Rights Act of 1965: - In 2006 re-ratified for 25 years, with a Senate vote of 98 to 0 _(EVERYONE! when does that happen)_ - In 2013 the Supreme Court overturned many provisions as anachronistic/redundant _(go read the arguments - there are no agruments, just vague fuzzy notion delisionally playing along with talking points of the day - like "We Don't See Color" )_ --- every year since more State Legislations worked to disenfranchise voters, and all under Republicans Even the AI's can't count all exploits... I asked a few, but none legal, so: _(not that anyone will see this)_ what was ERASED by the Emperors on the Supreme Court was Federal Court oversight in election matters for HISTORICALLY PROBLEMATIC STATES _(racist ones - oh, white middle aged guy dumping on them, so... not like it affects me at all - heard it's harder to Vote by Mail by FL, but then clickety click on the computer as a Republican SO EASY Ballet just appears, and website acknowledged prompt recording - anyway why would I change Party and lose my primary Vote against the WORST - they'll all rubber stamps, but some are more MOUTHY)_ : *AI SUMMARY:* The states subject to federal oversight under the Voting Rights Act of 1965, prior to the 2013 Supreme Court ruling in Shelby County v. Holder, were: Alabama Alaska (some political subdivisions) Arizona (some political subdivisions) Georgia Louisiana Mississippi South Carolina Texas (some political subdivisions) Virginia (some political subdivisions) In addition to these states, certain counties and municipalities in other states, including California, Florida, New York, North Carolina, and South Dakota, were also subject to federal oversight under Section 5.

[@brianwade879]

The SCOTUS as they're constituted today, acts opposite of the will of the people ! Totally opposite !

[@cathypascoe674]

Lawrence O’Donnell hit it ALL right on target. What a contrast between the very honourable Doug Emhoff and Kamala Harris and the greediness and apparent ongoing conflict of interest of the chief Justice of the Supreme Court and his wife. This segment should be required viewing by all justices! Way to go, Lawrence O’Donnell. You speak for so many.

[@petemavus2948]

And Mr.O'Donnel has called out Clarence and Ginni Thomas on all their questionable behaviors and affiliations as well.

[@RockyNitro5470]

To who does it speak to? Oh! The them's, thay's, thing's and it's 😂 You must use your personal pronoun now...😂😂😂😂😂

[@petemavus2948]

@@RockyNitro5470 People who are flexible, respectful and not trying to go back to some idealized space and time have no problem addressing people however they'd like to be addressed. It's only magats who have a hard time with it and everything else that isn't a gun, pregnant, small minded, authoritarian or a "Dark Money" Scheme of the GQP Federalist Extremists. 🥱

[@ruthslone2992]

Thank you. Righteous outrage is exactly what is necessary regarding John Roberts. He’s a terrible creature. We need to expand the SC by four new appointments, and impeach the ones that lied under oath, when questioned about Roe v. Wade.

[@suzanrobinson4719]

How will the courts expand when republicans refuse to act like adults instead of bully hostage takers? Matt Gaetz admitted to the media that republicans are not negotiating with their hostages. Wth? Americans are now hostages of the republican extremists who are passing laws to hurt their constituents...wth??

[@DonoVideoProductions]

Impeach them, and vacate their rulings.

[@rgruenhaus]

But why aren't we hearing this from Congress and Senate?

[@RodneyYone]

YUP!!!! YOUR TALKING ABOUT MR THOMAS'S,,,, RIGHT???? OF COURSE YOU ARE!!!

[@RodneyYone]

​@@rgruenhaus BECAUSE OUR CONGRESS,, AND OUR SENATE HAVE BEEN COMPLETELY TAKEN OVER BY THE MAGA PEOPLE,,, BUT,, NOT FOR LONG!!!!!

[@TheShannon2288]

With a straight face, he said deciding to PROTECT HIMSELF was the MOST difficult decision he's ever made😳 he's absolutely clueless.

[@Grannathinks]

Probably?? I think, absolutely clueless.

[@me-l-9910]

Thank you, Lawrence for so eloquently saying what so many of our weary, broken hearts have been feeling for a very long time.

[@maggiebannenberkowitz9254]

This Justice has no right to be in our government!!!

[@sircasm6578]

Angry Karen alert😅

[@suezbell1]

Legally, yes; morally, no-- he has forfeited that via his absence of ethics.

[@keithhunter3910]

Roberts does not understand the concept of integrity. INTEGRITY: If it is not right do not do it. If it is not true, do not say it.

[@lawrenceleverton7426]

And guess what. He cant get fired. Lifetime Appointment.

[@winterlightstudios4340]

None of the scotus members deserve any taxpayer funded protection. Or staff. Or anything else for that matter.

[@paulgooding803]

Shocking, true, and kudos to Larry for calling Roberts out. Shame on Roberts and this disgraceful court.

[@claudettelefebvre8421]

Mr Lawrence O’Donnell from my heart my profound gratitude and respect 👍🙏✍️ You are an gentleman an Believer professionnel and trusting person giving long hrs for the truth to us on Internet Medias News , KZbin Believe Sharing Caring Loving 🥰 is important to be living as good Citizens and Christian Thanks you so much for the truth and humans values and relationships to one and each other. I will never forget about thanksgiving and gratitude for you & caring Your work for a better world 🌍 Each day is a blessing to see you and to listen to you Mr Lawrence O’Donnell God Bless you and your love ones Merci cher ami de tout mon cœur👯‍♀️ Twins Le5 Irish Canadian jumelles 👯‍♀️ Jeannette Claudette C . Gilmore ❤Sherbrooke ☘️Quebec 🇲🇶🌈 Canada 🇨🇦 🍁

[@louisecardinal]

More like a kangaroo court

[@marjanmid]

I did not know that Kamala Harris's husband had quit his job to avoid conflict of interest.❤

[@krisbaker9427]

@@marjanmid he didn’t “have” to, he just did because it was the correct thing to do.

[@perrywalton2464]

@@louisecardinal kabuki theater.

[@wabinagi]

Time for term limits for the supreme court!!!

[@audreywellham2413]

Extremely sad times for the United States of America. 🇺🇸🙏🏻

[@Gabedudley1]

Thank a Democrat

[@Essex121514]

​@@Gabedudley1 Qool story Qid.

[@inulomar1776]

Ununited

[@sassysaint3096]

​@@Gabedudley1 comming from a person who thinks trump is above the law, supports fascism and is willing to be subservient.

[@Gabedudley1]

@@sassysaint3096 do you remember how Hitler silenced, censored, smeared, and jailed his political opponents? Including journalist? That was fascism. And guess what? It's still fascism. Do you support it?

[@louisedahlstrom7578]

Well said, Lawrence. Justice Roberts showed how far removed from 'real' life' he and others in positions of power are.

[@CCR971]

Roberts and the rest of the Conservative justices aren't just pampered, clueless hypocrites, they are sociopaths. Putting people to death is not a hard decision for Roberts. It makes me wonder how many innocent people he has put to death, not because they deserved it, but because HE ENJOYS IT.

[@ellenfaulkner7616]

His biggest accomplishment was to decide to put a fence around the Supreme Court? Shame on him and some judges who have no clue. Roberts is so out of touch. We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards? It’s mind blowing how corrupt our Supreme Court is. Thanks Lawrence for knocking it out of the park. Kudos to Kamala husband showed us what ethics truly mean

[@rebeccahenderson7761]

Remove ALL 'lifetime' appointments.

[@smitisan4984]

“The hardest decision I had to make was whether to erect fences and barricades around the Supreme Court. I had no choice but to go ahead and do it,” Roberts said. Wait, your hardest decision was one you didn't have a choice about? The Chief Justice of the United States doesn't know what a decision is. It figures.

[@TheDavidlloydjones]

Well said, Smitty. One of the ver-ree few even faintly rational comments here.

[@lawrenceleverton7426]

I bet he can give you the definition of a woman. The last slack azz was a female and couldn't even define her own gender. She only got the job based on color.

[@larrydraglandjr]

Term limits are needed now

[@Eldritch-1]

Age limits too, walking zombies with ED and dementia running the show over there in deliverance land.

[@trentw.3566]

That would take a constitutional amendment in this case. Mayne it's time, but understand it's an uphill battle.

[@John-zn4lp]

The Supreme Court has become supremely pathetic and a disgrace for which it stands for.

[@CatherinePearl100]

Pathetic, as well as extremely apathetic.

[@calikiwi]

Which yells the undeniable fact Justice Roberts considers HIMSELF the most important thing in his mind..😳. I wonder what his predecessors would be thinking.

[@trvst5938]

They upheld slavery and segregation for decades each. We know the kind of court this is. Not one that represents the people.

[@e-spy]

They would be screaming at us to get rid of him.

[@therealrhodiemx]

That was his hardest decision? I just lost all my respect for him.

[@keithhunter3910]

It took you this long?

[@brianwade879]

I never had any respect for him or Thomas. I'd take Moscow Mitch fishing !

[@TheScandoman]

Well, as an ULTRA-CONSERVATIVE, I listened to his live testimony to Senate confirmation hearings after the fascist baby Bush nominated hin, so, I never has any respect for him. But, yes, wow! That was a very narcissistic answer!

[@lisacateyes53]

This progressive never had respect for Roberts, his court or his integrity.

[@moralfortitude...2217]

he never had mine, periodT

[@kiki6061QC]

If they cannot follow the rule of law themselves...why would any citizen feel obligated to follow their laws? See the irony here ?

[@susanfrancis5471]

To live outside the law, you must be honest. -Bob Dylan

[@DuelScreen]

Lawrence is an irreplaceable treasure. He sees things much more deeply than most. Keep him on the air MSNBC.

[@tortoro6565]

Lawrence should run for president. He is a deep thinker, smart, caring and speak eloquently

[@helenwalker5981]

I agree! When Lawrence O’Donnell speaks, He speaks from Truth!

[@stevenandrean2661]

The super genius Lawrence is biggest assets for MSNBC.

[@victoriaorellana9745]

Where is he going ?

[@suzanneforasiepi3942]

​@@stevenandrean2661absolutely 💯👍🏽

[@sassysaint3096]

Brilliantly said Lawrence. Thank you.

[@minnieautry3725]

It's shocking that putting a fence up outside Supreme Court building was his hardest decision. He does not have a heart for the struggles of the people, not life or death issues. Lord help America 😢

[@jb2395]

Lawrence, I love your undertone of sarcasm!!! Yes, erecting fences and barricades is incredibly riveting!!! 😅

[@godisgood1024]

Lawrence always speaks the truth, no matter how hard it is to tell or hear ❤

[@yrp237]

I never thought I'd see this day when my reverence for the court & John Robert's would ebb completely away. But today is that day. It turns out the man is not who I thought he was and the court is not who I thought it was. 😢

[@robinaddis-vaughn7271]

Bravo 👏 👏 👏!!! Lawrence always nails it perfectly!

[@micktully7228]

Shockingly corrupt. Eloquently stated. Great reporting!

[@christinemila4543]

We all have to come together, as rational Americans, to get rid of these silly ,dangerous people !

[@wannabegeek519]

Supreme court needs an awakening. Tar and feathering used to be a thing. Time for a comeback.

[@esotericist9]

This should be played on loudspeaker outside Robert's office non-stop.

[@Babyluthi]

Any volunteers? Would they get charged for disturbing the peace? Or would it be considered a peaceful/legal protest etc?

[@susanfrancis5471]

The theft of a SCOTUS seat from Obama, by McConnell Should’ve Never been allowed ! He was disturbed that Obama was half black, and he got away with it. Republicans need to be Voted Out.

[@chrisking4802]

Well we both know any person who did that would be moved on or shot, First Amendment or not.

[@Babyluthi]

@@chrisking4802 Jeez that is grim.

[@CollinJames-ds1vx]

In Chief Justice's own words he exposed how deeply shallow he is. It's a shame, a once revered Supreme Court is now at such depths and destruction of the citizens rights. Excellent presentation Mr Lawrence

[@stellashepherd3229]

And willing to make himself the victim. Poor him, that his decision to build a fence from the people he victimizes was a hard decision.

[@efulmer8675]

And on top of his own strongly professed obsession with the image of the Supreme Court which he has consigned, perhaps not 100% willingly in some cases when the Court split 5-4 anyway, to some extremely low values, lower even than sitting Presidents. And he seems to have given up all possible drive to even attempt to set his torn apart ship right again.

[@edeledeledel5490]

I love the phrase "deeply shallow"; possibly the most apt description of his principles.

[@shortmeister4321]

Wow! You are so excellent at telling the truth about the corruption running rampant in government. Thank you Mr. O'Donnell.

[@thomasstevens9988]

Thank you Lawrence!! Please Continue your Hard Hitting reports and keep exposing the Evil Scum that is the Supreme Court!!!!

[@drawkcabgnivird]

American Justice is only determined by how high your $$$ bank account is stacked .

[@reason6835]

Tell that to Bernie Madoff or Jeffrey Epstein.

[@suezbell1]

I wish you were wrong but, sadly, mostly anyway, you're not.

[@Gabedudley1]

Ukraine runs America at the moment

[@kiwihib]

@@reason6835 They ripped off or hurt Republicans.

[@ThunderDog97]

Yup, America's Justice system is the same as the Healthcare system ...... you get the kind you can afford.

[@marionoz9980]

Your words are so moving, I cannnot absorb what that 10 year old CHILD had to endure. Anyone that added to her trauma is disgusting 😢

[@petemavus2948]

​@Friendof Cheapergas Speaking for God and unborn fetuses now too, obvious gas, gun and go magat.

[@tpo6142]

Lawrence ODonnell is a wordsmith and quickly becoming a national treasure. Love his monologues!

[@jmas2312]

Thank you, Lawrence. Very well expressed. It is sickening how low much of our government has fallen. VOTE BLUE! Please.

[@vintagepyro3692]

Bet that nimrod is a REGISTERED DOMESTIC TERRORIST DEMOCRAT OR REPUBLICAN TRAITOR. Thank God Americans have a right to defend ourselves from these domestic terrorists and their POLITICAL DOMESTIC TERRORIST attacks on Americans. DEMOCRATS AND REPUBLICANS commit and support acts of RIOTING, COMMITTING MASS SHOOTINGS AND BOMBINGS for their political AIMS. Only reason these TERRORISTS wants to take away guns is so THEY can help NEUTER AMERICANS and MAKE THEM VICTIMS OF THEIR POLITICAL TERRORIST WAR.

[@donnabrockbank8296]

Law makers and enforcement.

[@DDarkoBR]

Vote red

[@robertjohnson-er4rp]

​@@DDarkoBR Vote blue. Joe Biden 2024!!

[@robertjohnson-er4rp]

​@@donnabrockbank8296 Yes drain the swamp of MAGA republicans from Congress.

[@tlccromwell3058]

Keep up the good work, because this is exactly what they don’t want the public to know and they’re trying so hard to protect.

[@mikeanderson7549]

Yeah

[@mikeanderson7549]

You British?

[@robm.4512]

The absolute absence of empathy, honour, decency and humility displayed by Justice Roberts and his coterie is staggering. It is not unique in this world, but that does not make it any less disgusting.

[@talulahlives7893]

Absence of oversight as well.

[@rgruenhaus]

They can decide that the death penalty is warranted for others, but are afraid of others making that decision for them so they put up fences against OUR decisions!

[@petemavus2948]

Like 45 was going to get Mexico pay for his wall, Roberts wants us to pay for his fence.

[@corcaightowner8881]

Bought and paid for justices, that's all I see. No credibility. No accountability. This has got to end.

[@tigersforever4577]

The rampant corruption and pettiness of this court is an affront to Americans.

[@DDarkoBR]

Vote red

[@cdubya3071]

@@KurtBeck812 Rusky Red.

[@erichancock6815]

since it is all the result of actions taken by elected officials, then it is a reflection of the American voter.

[@ivandaly3679]

Just why has it taken everyone in the USA so damned long to realise that these 'supreme court😜" judges are bent? Why so long?

[@tonilharmon]

​@@DDarkoBR Vote red? Not on your life. Never.

[@josephvotta6698]

Lawrence is so knowledgeable, and points out terrible conduct with such calm and confident elegance - so fabulous!

[@petemavus2948]

I admire both Lawrence and Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse for their 'old school' integrity and exposing of our present SCOTUS. 👍🌎⚖️🇺🇸🗽🌍✌️

[@andreaperry938]

Yes you can see how oblivious he is. The supreme court has too much political power.

[@lawrenceleverton7426]

Rightfully so. And they lean Right.. Very bigly.

[@loricusenza4887]

Yet the SCOTUS is supposed to be NON POLITICAL… Hmmmmm…

[@chegeny]

These Justices are amongst the most powerful people in the world. Maximum transparency should be part of their jobs, not massive amounts of dark money from "interested parties." When a nation has become rotten with corruption and accepted as part of its culture, it's almost impossible to get rid of it.

[@mssharon108]

What I've heard is past empires (Roman, Byzantine, etc..) have all fallen due to the accumulation of excessive greed and power from the ruling leaders.

[@norafox4789]

Sad,very sad.

[@maxlogan215]

Very well done and really makes me think about the ethics of allowing a lifetime appointment for judges who have questionable ethics and a lack of current connection to the people they have so little allegiance to.

[@bovinityleak2066]

“The only pain and anguish he [roberts] seems to be capable of feeling in his job is when he gazes out of his office window and sees the fence that he feels he was forced to erect to keep the sounds of the pain and anguish he has inflicted on other people as far from his tender ears as possible.” Bravo Lawrence 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@ireneroeder4977]

You always find the right words. I keep shaking my head everytime I realize that these people are untouchable.

[@Grannathinks]

No,they are NOT. The People must Rise Up Only the People can correct this. Insist the justice as well as Mrs Roberts and the justice Thomas and Mrs Thomas are formally charged with TAX EVASION as well as other crimes. If We the People don't stand up and demand justice be served we'd just as well dissolve the Supreme Court.

[@mymia731]

Sadly true

[@barbaraburton8914]

A very touching and moving and deeply thought out segment Lawrence. Good on you. Most people would have just given it a brief thought and moved on to something else. ❤❤

[@CL-lo3xr]

It is mind-boggling to think that there is nothing that can be done to fire members of the Supreme Court.

[@keithhunter3910]

Biden and the democrats need to expand the court to 13 as soon as possible.

[@JasonMW45]

its called impeachment and the process is spelled out in the Constitution.

[@picholoup]

​@@JasonMW45 try that one with a magat controlled Congress. Good luck to you, America from France.

[@MehShona]

A word after a word, after a word, Mr. O’ Donnell, is power. Thank you for your daily service.

[@vintagepyro3692]

Bet that nimrod is a REGISTERED DOMESTIC TERRORIST DEMOCRAT OR REPUBLICAN TRAITOR. Thank God Americans have a right to defend ourselves from these domestic terrorists and their POLITICAL DOMESTIC TERRORIST attacks on Americans. DEMOCRATS AND REPUBLICANS commit and support acts of RIOTING, COMMITTING MASS SHOOTINGS AND BOMBINGS for their political AIMS. Only reason these TERRORISTS wants to take away guns is so THEY can help NEUTER AMERICANS and MAKE THEM VICTIMS OF THEIR POLITICAL TERRORIST WAR.

[@Slo-ryde]

Lawrence is the poet of all journalists!!!…..😊

[@Ana-bn9tw]

You are absolutely riveting sometimes. I was moved by your every word not only because it's true but, the delivery is outstanding! Thank you so much Mr. Lawrence for the inspiration and for your compassion on deeply important issues ❤ ♥ 💖 😊

[@lamadawa3645]

brilliant and important commentary by a premier journalist. Every thinking person in this country should see this!

[@deborahhovan6464]

Time for term limits and age limits, and the important thing is for a non congressional board comes up with a constitutional amendment for all guidelines for the Supreme Court behavior! There’s an old saying that money and power always corrupts!

[@reason6835]

They would have to be really long terms. We don't want the President appointing a majority of Justices who preside during his term. So at least longer than 8 year terms. 15 or 20 years would be more ideal.

[@bessiestrain9385]

Absolute power corrupts absolutely… I think that’s the phrase you were looking for💙🇺🇸🌈

[@janicenelson7639]

@@reason6835< Moronically incoherent, dangerously misinformed, maga-scared, MAGA hat Putin Bot-Butt Troll ⚠️ 📢

[@tommonk7651]

As an attorney, I'm just gonna say that the SCOTUS has at many times in its history had questionable justices on the court. The problem today is that the balance has been destroyed by the GOP's theft of 2 seats and that the seating of several totally unqualified and ethically challenged justices on the court now. I'm terribly disappointed and troubled by the direction of this court. Great takedown, Lawrence!

[@Colmleft]

Thanks for your perspective. It's oddly reassuring.

[@llc1976]

Agreed

[@gmaureen]

This court is a joke. Appointed to a Job for life and no standard of ethics. Something needs to be done.

[@thomascolbert2687]

I agree 100%. Additionally, Joe Biden said that before picking his next nominee, he would require they be female and black, I was disgusted. You would think that any nominees' body of work would be the high bar, not their race or gender.

[@petemavus2948]

​@@thomascolbert2687Well it was George W. Bush who nominated Clarence Thomas in support of Affirmative Action so let's not bring up Biden when it was tRump who damaged SCOTUS most after him. G-aslight O-bfuscate P-roject... As usual.

[@quietmeow2936]

It is no wonder why the American people have lost respect for the Supreme Court of the United States. The corruption and self-centered importance they display is sickening! It also shows their real contempt and disdain for the people they are supposed to be serving!

[@AlyxCoe]

Well said

[@mytwocents848]

Let's just call them the "Extreme Court"!

[@nonyabizness.original]

i used to hold the scotus in the very, very highest regard, back when i believed that they soberly and dispassionately looked at the constitution and the body of precedent to determine a law's or lower court ruling's validity without fear or favor. i defended their insulation from public view as they did their work because i assumed that they were also students of the society in which we all live, in order to make interpretations and rulings in the context of our society. in other words, i thought we didn't need to watch, understand, know them because they were watching, understanding, and knowing us in order to make wise and just rulings. but i grew up learning about scotus in the 1960's and 1970s, when all that appeared to be more or less true, as scotus did their dignified work to slowly move us toward making america's promises apply to all. this current court has shattered everything about that image.

[@elainebenham4739]

I hate to inform you but the rest of the world has already lost respect for all Of United States because of the lunatic Republicans running the GOP and Trump, DeSantis and Ted Cruz

[@judithn10]

It's disgusting how this sc behaves so out of touch and reality. It seems they think of themselves as independent governments, not a branch of it. They shouldn't be elected for a lifetime

[@dinahwilliams2834]

Excellent commentary, Lawrence! How far we have fallen as a country!

[@marvinmartin4692]

To see and hear the court’s total lack of integrity is showing how far our country has fallen and how much we need to get serious about saving our nation!

[@mytwocents848]

It started with Reagan and has gotten worse and worse. We need to clean this up. Vote Blue and demand that these extreme "justices" be investigated and impeached.

[@RodneyYone]

​@@marvinmartin4692 YUP!!!!! IT'S LIKE I SAID,,,,ITS ENTIRELY UP TO OUR YOUNGER GENERATION,,, HOPEFULLY,, THEY'LL SAVE US!!!! BECAUSE,,, WHAT'S GOING ON RIGHT NOW AIN'T WORKING!!!! NOT EVEN SLIGHTLY!!!!

[@DDarkoBR]

Vote red

[@dianamayfield5615]

I never thought I would say this. I've always been a proud American, but seeing what has come to light over the past decade or so, this is no longer true. Now as a senior citizen, I am truly ashamed to admit to being American. I am so sorry to the rest of the world, to whom we've been that shining light on the hill. They are now watching us come apart at our unethical seams...

[@clarkpalace]

If u were a backpacker in your youth running around the world you would have seen what a privileged cancer north america is. Canada, my place, is privileged as part of north america, just a little smarter.

[@jimfraser3567]

only in american eyes have they been the shining light on the hill

[@ellieem4716]

EXCELLENT point that that 10 year old girl (and countless others just like her) has already had to make harder decisions than Justice Roberts has had to make in his entire career.

[@kpepperl319]

Entire life... Not just professionally

[@cindyschneider4728]

Absolutely oblivious!

[@PaulMedik]

Missed point; millions of babies are aborted for convenience and that's a fact. Exceptions need to be legally granted, but stopping the carnage is most important. The point Roberts made was that their lives were placed in jeopardy by Democrats enticing violence upon them........and that's the excellent point made by Roberts that you and MSDNC missed.

[@lolodee3528]

Making rules without a uterus….15 years hard labor.

[@PaulMedik]

@@lolodee3528 Guilty as charged. Perhaps those of us without a uterus can step back and see the massive harm to our society that comes with no responsibility for our actions….nope; anyone can see the political division potential of the entire abortion debate and thus avoid it.

[@diligentmindz]

“The right of women to control their own bodies?” No problem. I just can’t decide what colour we paint that fence?

[@daisyelmir1289]

Sadly very true.🌼

[@blacblack7187]

A big beautiful fence, like the world has never seen before...🫤

[@donnabrockbank8296]

Pray. GOD will enlighten you.

[@J.M.-nb4gw]

Nailed it!

[@rochellestarr9538]

Chain link or picket?...10 year olds dying in childbirth?...hmmm,thats a tough one

[@douglasheberlein6507]

Out of so many, this might be your best commentary yet. Keep swinging that sledgehammer of truth. Your effectiveness is evidenced by your extreme unpopularity with those you highlight. Or rather, lowlight...

[@helanna9843]

You just made the most logical reason for term limits for Supreme court justices. Lifetime appointments place them in a bubble that protects them from ever experiencing real life concerns that U.S. citizens face.

[@lawrenceleverton7426]

They interpret the law as written. Which is written very clear in black and white. Not personal opinions. So they can live under a rock and still interpret.

[@rockyraccoon8270]

Life time appointments were instituted because the idea was that the Justices would be free to make decisions with out having to worry about currying favor with a political party to maintain their position. Overlooking the influence of cold hard cash and a life of privilege and luxury. Corruptibility is not bug in Republican Supreme court justice nominees it is a feature sought out by the Federalist society ,what better way to assure a compliant court ?

[@kennethsteinfield6104]

Great call, Lawrence. "Shockingly shallow" doesn't begin to cover it.

[@rileyhoffman6629]

It's always been clear that those with power - however acquired - will do what they have to to retain it. He made the decision to protect himself, that's all.

[@OohGreat]

*He’s a 🤬liar, Remove Roberts and Thomas*

[@Gabedudley1]

So this media that convinced you for over 4 years of Russiagate are not the liars? Let's not forget how Hitlers propaganda worked on the weak minded

[@rjlchristie]

and the other three Republican nominated justices who all lied in confirmation hearings.

[@suzanneforasiepi3942]

We need to expand the supreme Court and make Puerto Rico a state and DC into state hood

[@OohGreat]

@@suzanneforasiepi3942 absolutely agree

[@anguselliott8986]

There was no one paying for the fencing decision. That's a tough one. When you've been paid to make your decisions there's not much thinking involved.

[@aliceputt3133]

Absolutely a great point. No one was paying him for a decision on the fencing so he didn’t know what to do.

[@donnabrockbank8296]

It was to save lives of people already born. His life and his team mates exactly. It had to be a difficult decision for him.

[@ItsJustMyOpinion_Really]

THE BEST MONOLOGUE EVER! Thank you, Lawrence, you nailed it! 👍 Very well said!

[@HaroldTheWizardCat]

This is insane

[@Gabedudley1]

How people are still falling for propaganda? Yes it is insane.

[@janicenelson7639]

@Gabe Dudley < You, as a trump cult member, have fallen the hardest for all the cult "propaganda." The thing about you MAGA hat Putin Bot-Butt Trolls is that you are witnessing the downfall of trump/trumpism. This scares you freakish cult members to death because trump's downfall points to your own demise.

[@christinaulibarri4777]

The lifetime seating for Supreme Court Justices needs to end and term limits implemented along with a CODE OF ETHICS for the Supreme Court Justices. If we think Justice Thomas is the only bought corrupt Justice we are sadly mistaken. Thank you Mr. O'Donnell and staff for your work and commentary.

[@lawrenceleverton7426]

If he was a Left leaning Judge you wouldn't even comment or have a concern. That would be perfectly acceptable for ya.

[@ianburton9223]

@@lawrenceleverton7426 I thought the whole point of a supreme court is that it should NOT be politically left or right. The court is there to ensure justice is served DESPITE the politicians' machinations. That's exactly why this court has failed. This court allows religious and political motivations to corrupt justice.

[@glennpearson9348]

The problem with creating a Code of Ethics for SCOTUS is that there already is one: There's just no practical way to enforce it. Who sits in judgement of the highest judges in the land? In any event, there's a fix for this. Go back to the previous method of seating Supreme Court Justices. The President nominates new justices and the Senate confirms them with a super-majority (at least 60 votes to confirm). When the Senate confirmation process was reduced to a simple majority of only 50 or more votes to confirm, that's when the wheels came off. Just in time for Trump to place three new justices with little material resistance from the Left.

[@dennisharrell2236]

​​@@lawrenceleverton7426 No, you are projecting. It is blindingly obvious that the Republicans on this court are corrupt and making decisions based on the outcome they want to bring about, not on the law. And you are totally fine with that.

[@neotheomnipotent]

​@@lawrenceleverton7426 wrong because we aren't in a cult

[@spir5102]

It feels like so many justices, Congress members, and politicians are insulated from the hardships and suffering facing most American people. These politicians are supposed to work for the American people because we pay their salaries. Changes must be made so that the government officials are not treated like oligarchs while many Americans are hungry, homeless, burdened, and scared.

[@laurahefner8387]

Mr. O’ Donnell just gets better & better at sifting through all of the lies and façades of ‘ethics’ - to the Truth. I love, honor & respect this man greatly!!!!

[@Grannathinks]

Me too, well said! Again thank you Lawrence. You are a true American with truly American values. I fully expect the government and the courts to work for all the people NOT for the wealthy, the corporate groups and especially NOT For THEMSELVES

[@josecolon-ih9no]

His presentation about the court spot on

[@carolyntalbot947]

Powwrful segment! Please keep informing audiences of how our government works and helping to support and elect progressive Democrats--the ONLY chance we have to actually drain the swamp.

[@DDarkoBR]

Vote red

[@lorraine7056]

100%💚💙

[@bluelady549]

Absolutely brilliant, Lawrence! Your scathing - and well deserved - words were delivered with the eloquence we have come to expect from you. You are a true patriot, and we are all better for having your knowledge and wisdom given to us so thoughtfully. Thank you.

[@2fabalwayz83]

The Supreme Court is becoming such a joke, sad but true.

[@emjay2045]

“Becoming?”

[@mireillesaintjuste9138]

It is a joke.

[@djfox5955]

Time for term limits and voting for US Supreme Court like we do with State Supreme Courts.

[@ritamoon7261]

And churches paying taxes

[@DuelScreen]

Not the voting part. No. That would devolve into partisan politics quickly. It's better to keep the current system for appointments but I might be in favor of a mandatory retirement age or term limits.

[@suezbell1]

Yes -- and ethics required and imposed /enforceable.

[@dustin9132]

WE NEED COMPREHENSIVE REFORMS: 1) Require ⅔ vote for all judicial confirmations 2) 10 yrs min. lower court experience 3) Expand the Supreme Court to 14 4) Establish Associate Chief Justice 5) 8 votes required to grant certiorari 6) 20 yr term; then transfer down 7) Senate must act on noms. within 30 days REFORM #1 (Supreme, Appeals, District) • Treaties require a ⅔ vote. Judicial appointments have a much larger impact on our society; they deserve the same level of scrutiny. A higher threshold for confirmations would force parties to nominate towards the center, ensuring that the majority of senators - and the people they represent, are satisfied with who sits on the bench. This is a common requirement in other countries. REFORM #2 (Supreme, Appeals) • Requiring a minimum of 10 years of lower court experience for nominations to the US Supreme Court (5 years for Appeals) would enable better scrutiny of nominees and increased predicability of their performance if confirmed. This is a common requirement in many other countries. REFORMS #3,4,5 (Supreme) • The bench for each case shall consist of the Chief Justice or Associate Chief Justice and six Associate Justices. • The Court receives ≈7,000 petitions for writs of certiorari (review) each term but only grants ≈70. Increasing the size of the Court to 14 and working in concurrent panels of 7, on a random/rotating basis would enable the Court to be twice as productive and prevent the runaway gaming of the system we have now - the current flood of "controversial" issues filling the Court's docket is a direct result of having 5 far-right justices and that the Court chooses which cases it will review, and consent to grant cert is only needed from 4 of them. REFORM #6 (Supreme) • The US Constitution "requires" that federal judges serve for life. Once a justice serves for 20 years they would have the option of retiring or transferring to lower court of their choosing. Several retired justices have chosen to serve on the lower courts in a limited capacity; this would not be an unusual change. REFORM #7 (Supreme, Appeals, District) • To depoliticize the judicial branch - as was intended by the Founders - every effort should be made to fill judicial branch vacancies as they occur. The Senate should not be permitted to ignore or arbitrarily delay the filling of vacancies on any federal court. • Vacancies that occur after September 1st during a presidential election year shall not be filled until after the election, and shall only be filled by the current president if they have been re-elected, or if the incoming president is of the same party. ===================== We are not the only country in the free world. We are not the only country with a supreme court. Our peers have all figured this out. The solutions are simple. The political will to give up partisanship, is the hard part. The Founders disagreed on many things, and their intentions are not always clear - but the importance of an independent judiciary is not one of those things. They were very clear about this. “The independence of the judges is equally requisite to guard the Constitution and the rights of individuals from the arts of designing men, or the influence of particular conjunctures . . . there is no liberty, if the power of judging be not separated from the legislative and executive powers.” ALEXANDER HAMILTON Federalist 78 (1788)

[@barbaraolson6783]

Yes,time to put limitations on all government positions. Limits on campaign spending, promotion,the people need to be informed of past rulings and experiences. I feel citizens have been kept in the dark.All SCJustices need to be above moral &/or ethical codes. Even the appearance of judgement being swayed by any means other than truth makes The UnitEd States tainted unjust.

[@carlwhitt4821]

The whole USA needs to hear this to realize the truth about the Supreme Court, the republicans and the way they think. Thank you Lawrence.

[@randyroehm6921]

I hope someday soon someone will come by and turn the lights on for you, so you’re not sitting in the dark anymore

[@jhill4071]

Don't believe this story for a second. Isn't this the same bunch at MSNBC who swore up and down that Donald Trump was a member of Putin inner circle-when they knew full well that the FBI and D.C. Intel Community were using a bogus report from some crackpot . A report it turns out the FBI funded that smeared Trump right before the last election. Congressional hearing have proven the FBI lied and that the main steam media knew about the FBI Russia Gate report hoax. You know ringing of the Super Court with tanks would have been a nice touch. In the light of day it 's clear the D.C. barricades and fences are paranoid "chick little" Dems overreaction. You know when Trump is elected in 2024 the barricades and fences will disappear overnight and Washington D.C. will be returned to the pleasant tourist attraction its alway been.

[@cattymajiv]

@@randyroehm6921 Whom are you refering to? This OP? Seems you don't have a clue.

[@petemavus2948]

​@@cattymajiv My dog Randy was smarter than this guy.

[@saraleigh5336]

I am grateful for Lawrence’s eloquence and, of course, insight, when even words fail me.

[@Ponchoman07]

How any sentient voter in the US can vote for a Republican in any election, knowing full well the now elected Republican office holder will fully support the confirmation of people like John Roberts and Clarence Thomas and Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Barrett on our Supreme Court - people who will give rights to a fetus while stripping away the rights of a woman or 10 year old girl - leaves me absolutely stupefied.

[@Gabedudley1]

Because we see through the propaganda and the obvious facsim taking place. Why can't you? Indoctrinated? Radicalized? Remember how 1930s germany did it? Are you really falling for it?

[@retzknuckle2023]

Deep in those people is a shared sense of evil. Republicans know hate is a powerful thing and they are betting on it.

[@sassysaint3096]

And strip away the rights of safty for children in schools.

[@mohammadfarhat422]

simple....they are not sentient

[@Kermit_T_Frog]

The way Republicans stacked the Supreme Court with partisan hacks was outrageous. But the way that Republicans elected a ridiculous grifter like Trump President was INSANE.

[@raywright4799]

Your contribution never goes unnoticed. Great job brother

[@markantrobus8782]

Lawrence O'Donnell adult in the room. I will watch and listen to Lawrence on anything, anywhere. 🙏

[@susanford2388]

When I heard that from Justice Roberts, I was shocked & thought what a horrible man Roberts is. Thank you Mr. O'Donnell for your attention on this subject.

[@conniegal201]

Mr. O'Donnell, thank you so much for clearly stating what many of us have felt for quite some time about the institution of the Supreme Court. Sadly, it is no longer an institution we deem with pride and respect; instead, we deem it with disappointment, disgust, and disrespect. Not at all what the Founding Fathers had hoped would be the most well regarded branch of our government. The major flaw of its architecture is the "lifelong appointments" - for that has obviously invited current justices to be way too comfortable in doing absolutely nothing to truly represent the People of the United States... and to flagrantly abuse their power.

[@williegutierrez2337]

Chief Justice Roberts "ARE YOU HEARING THIS! ARE YOU LISTENING!" smh!!! you aint no man!

[@reason6835]

He doesn't care. Nor should he.

[@sassysaint3096]

​@@reason6835 spoken like a true subservient.

[@janicenelson7639]

@@reason6835< Moronically incoherent, maga-scared, MAGA hat Putin Bot-Butt Troll ⚠️ 📢

[@ckslifeandtravels9352]

Omg! Thank you a 1000 times over for this segment! We need change from the top all the way down in the justice system.

[@mikeanderson7549]

You British?

[@Kahtilani]

Thank you, Mr. O'Donnell for this well researched, evaluated, and impactful report about how the historically low standards of this U.S. Supreme Court is 'worse than we thought.' That is putting it mildly. It is essential that the public know who each of these ethically flawed, thoughtless, ludicrous, and heartless justices are. That any single justice would have such unethical behavior is devastating, but that one third of the United States Supreme Court Justices have exhibited such behavior proves a critical need for serious investigations by the Dept. of Justice, Congress, and the Senate.

[@JimHolder-pk2kk]

Lack of Justice in our country is a direct result of a lack of ethics in our Chief Justice.

[@edvh88]

Yes. Leadership should come from the top. Unless they want revolution…

[@gotwalk]

$10 million to JUSTICE Roberts's wife.

[@susanfrancis5471]

@@gotwalk Who the fk needs 10 Million Dollars? I’m sure most of us would have More than Enough with 1.

[@markfeland2285]

Lack of ethics across the board, the corruption in politics is a direct result of the corruption in the private sector

[@jbos5107]

@@gotwalk They're preparing their next generations to hold on to the power they've taken from us. You can't be on top without peons and serfs to take care of the dirty work.

[@bethleslie3994]

It reveals, as Lawrence says, a “shockingly shallow” response. Wow. Thanks for the wise and sensitive, spot-on analysis, Lawrence O’Donnell.

[@salventi5665]

Thank you again Lawrence, for your powerful words, putting into context the complete contempt the rich and powerful have for everyday Americans.

[@frankiet.wankumesq.2558]

Remove them all and start over. At this point they are all tainted.

[@lawrenceleverton7426]

Good luck with that. Ain't happening anytime soon.

[@jamesmedina2062]

Thats not true that all the justices are trash. That shows you would not make a judicious judge. But the answer is simple: change the constitution to allow the public to elect the justices. I vote for all our local judges.

[@WeeWeeJumbo]

Nah, just the Republican ones

[@nycatlady2314]

Lawrence, you’re the only one who’s reporting on this corruption. Thank you

[@beckv8526]

Wow! What a great piece. Lawrence is always good with his pieces but this was informative and if everyone doesn't see how crooked the Supreme Court is, they're in denial. At least two of them have given us reason to want them impeached. How do we do that?

[@jennifercampbell7698]

Well said! Let those words be heard at the time of Robert’s retirement or obituary! 👏🏻👏🏻

[@mikeanderson7549]

Yeah

[@mikeanderson7549]

You from the united state?

[@jackieheaney8246]

Just stunning, a marvelous monologue.

[@wanajday]

“Wandering through the single most publicly corrupt period of the supreme court’s history”. Thank you for this educational news video.

[@nelsonolivera8059]

Very sobering. Thank You! We have to expand the number of judges, set a time limit plus have a code of ethics in place.

[@karenhuff5209]

Agreed. There should be the same number of justices as there are court of appeals circuits, 13 at this time, along with the same code of conduct every single judge and lawyer must abide by and term limits. There also should be a minimum amount of time and experience that appointees to SCOTUS have actually been a judge, preferably in US District Court or any of the state or federal appeals courts.

[@Sbudre]

Man I love watching Lawrence. The way you preface your stories, is wonderful.

[@MaryAnnNytowl]

Lawrence is one of the greats fighting this fight for us every day. ❤❤❣️

[@PippisMom]

Totally agree with you!

[@garygibson4845]

Forensic investigators should be allowed to investigate the last ten years of Supreme Court rulings in order to verify the validity of impartial decisions by the court.

[@Laura-LaFauve]

Amen

[@JasonMW45]

All you have to do is read the Constitution for exactly what is says, not what the left in America wishes it said.

[@lawrenceleverton7426]

Maybe they can find who released the roe vs wade docs.

[@Laura-LaFauve]

@@JasonMW45 your mind could hide behind a corkscrew.

[@Eldritch-1]

Should check their browser history too...