It's not often that the U.S. Supreme Court makes headlines over a death, but sadly that was the case this week after it was announced that a former Supreme Court justice had passed away.
According to the New York Post, former U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter has died. He was 85.
Souter was appointed to the high court by George H.W. Bush, but later generated controversy by becoming what was described as a "reliable" liberal vote on the high court, frustrating Republicans over the years with various landmark decisions.
Souter, a New Hampshire resident, reportedly "died peacefully" at his residence, reports indicated.
U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Roberts issued a statement in the wake of the news of Souter's passing.
"Justice David Souter served our Court with great distinction for nearly twenty years. He brought uncommon wisdom and kindness to a lifetime of public service," a statement from Chief Justice Roberts read.
Roberts added, "After retiring to his beloved New Hampshire in 2009, he continued to render significant service to our branch by sitting regularly on the Court of Appeals for the First Circuit for more than a decade. He will be greatly missed."
Rest in peace, Justice Souter.
As a trailblazer on the bench who was not afraid to cross ideological lines and stand up for his beliefs, Justice Souter will always be a role model for aspiring lawyers and jurists. pic.twitter.com/q8dlF4Yp6Q
— Eleanor #DCStatehood Holmes Norton (@EleanorNorton) May 9, 2025
Despite his distinctive service to the high court, he was a thorn in the side of Republican and certain major topics.
The Post noted:
Souter was confirmed to the high court in 1990 and went on to side with the liberal bloc on issues including abortion, freedom of religion and expression — as well as the disputed 2000 election.
Given his status as a former Supreme Court justice, his death sparked plenty of well wishes, and criticisms of his positions while he was active.
"May his soul rest in peace. May his memory be a blessing," one X user wrote.
Another X user wrote, "He was yet another swing and a miss from a Republican president about a Supreme Court nomination. Sununu poorly advised a RINO GHWB to pick this man."
Several high-profile Republicans and Democrats also offered their condolences across social media.
