Former Supreme Court Justice David Souter passes away at age 85

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 3:12 pm

Former Supreme Court Justice David Souter Dies at 85

Retired Supreme Court Justice David Souter, a figure known for his nearly two decades of service and his shift towards the court's liberal wing, has passed away at the age of 85. The Supreme Court announced his death on Thursday, noting he died peacefully at his home in New Hampshire, where he resided since retiring in 2009. The cause of death was not specified.

Appointed by President George H.W. Bush in 1990, Souter served on the court for almost 20 years. Initially viewed as a conservative pick, he later aligned with the court's liberal justices on key issues. This shift sparked criticism from Republicans, who coined the phrase "No More Souters."

During his tenure, Souter played a pivotal role in upholding the core tenets of *Roe v. Wade*, supported affirmative action, and sided with the liberal justices on matters of religion. He was also among the dissenting justices in *Bush v. Gore*, the controversial case that decided the 2000 presidential election. Despite considering resignation after the decision, he remained on the court until his retirement in 2009 at the relatively young age of 69.

Before his time on the Supreme Court, Souter had a distinguished career in public service. A Rhodes Scholar and Harvard Law School graduate, he served as New Hampshire's Attorney General and later on the state's Supreme Court and the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. After retiring, he continued to hear cases at the 1st Circuit by designation. Known for his privacy, Souter rarely made public appearances after retirement, but in 2012, he voiced concerns about "pervasive civic ignorance" regarding the U.S. Constitution.

BNN's Perspective: Justice Souter's legacy is complex. While his shift towards the liberal side of the court disappointed some, his commitment to the law and his dedication to public service are undeniable. His quiet dignity and his post-retirement warnings about civic ignorance highlight the importance of informed citizenry in a functioning democracy.

Keywords: David Souter, Supreme Court, Justice, Obituary, George H.W. Bush, Roe v. Wade, Bush v. Gore, Retirement, New Hampshire, Liberal, Conservative, Court of Appeals, Rhodes Scholar, Harvard Law School, Civic Ignorance, Death, Passed Away

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