US Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson has faced criticism for her recent spotlight moment, with some accusing her of seeking publicity in ways that are inappropriate for a member of the high court.
The controversy began when the latest issue of a prominent women's publication featured Jackson on its cover, with the headline 'The People's Champion'. The photo shows Jackson wearing a purple coat and smiling directly at the reader, but some critics argue that this treatment blurs the line between judicial service and celebrity.
Supreme Court justices are not celebrities, and they should not be treated as such, according to some legal observers. They argue that events such as public appearances and photoshoots risk distracting from their duties to interpret the law.
Critics point out that a judge's role is to interpret the law, not to be a champion or an activist. Some have taken to social media to express their disappointment, with one person tweeting 'A judge is not supposed to be anyone's champion. That's why they're a judge.'
Others have questioned the motives behind the publication's decision to feature Jackson on its cover, with one person suggesting that it is part of a broader trend of liberal media outlets treating Supreme Court justices like celebrities.
The criticism comes as the nation celebrates its 250th birthday, and some have argued that this moment provides an opportunity to reflect on the role of the Supreme Court in American society.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how Justice Jackson will respond to the criticism.
