Justice Jackson criticized for impartiality on Obama podcast

Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson is facing criticism for comments she made about judicial impartiality during a recent appearance on a podcast hosted by former First Lady Michelle Obama. The episode of "IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson" was released on July 30, 2026, but was recorded in May.

During the more than hour-long conversation, Justice Jackson, who was appointed by President Joe Biden, emphasized the importance of judges avoiding any appearance of bias. "There are lots of limits on what judges can do, and I try to be very, very mindful and scrupulous with respect to that because, as you say, our obligation is to be unbiased in our approach," Jackson said. She added that justices must "navigate all the sources that could make for an appearance of partiality, which you want to avoid."

Jackson explained that she has invitations screened by the Supreme Court's legal and public information offices to ensure there are no ethical conflicts, such as fundraisers. Michelle Obama echoed the theme, asking Jackson how she manages her exposure to news and information to remain above board.

The setting of these remarks prompted immediate backlash from conservative...