Key facts
- Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Elena Kagan will testify before Congress on Tuesday.
- The Supreme Court is requesting a nearly 10% budget increase, totaling approximately $230 million.
- Over $14 million of the requested funds are earmarked for enhancing security at justices' residences and for their families.
- This marks the first testimony by sitting justices before congressional appropriations committees since 2019.
- Data shows nearly 400 judges faced threats last year, with 276 targeted this year as of July 1.
U.S. Supreme Court Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Elena Kagan are scheduled to testify before congressional appropriations subcommittees on Tuesday, seeking a significant budget increase to enhance security measures amid a rise in threats against federal judges. This marks the first appearance by sitting justices before Congress for budget requests since 2019, excluding confirmation hearings.
The court is requesting approximately $230 million for the upcoming fiscal year, representing a roughly 10% increase from the current budget. A substantial portion of this increase, over $14 million, is designated for the Supreme Court Police Department to expand protective activities for justices' residences and their families.
Data from the U.S. Marshals Service indicates a concerning trend, with nearly 400 judges facing threats last year and 276 targeted as of July 1 this year. Chief Justice John Roberts has previously voiced concerns about hostility directed at judges, calling it 'dangerous and it's got to stop.' This call for increased security follows high-profile incidents, including an attempted assassination near Justice Brett Kavanaugh's home in 2022.
The court's recent term has been marked by landmark rulings, including the overturning of Roe v. Wade, and has faced scrutiny over ethics and declining public approval. Questions have also persisted regarding the conduct of some justices, such as Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas, concerning disclosures and public displays.