Justice David Souter Dies at 85

Retired Supreme Court Justice David Souter, appointed in 1990 by President George H.W. Bush, has died at age 85 at his home in New Hampshire. Initially considered a conservative, Souter became known for consistently aligning with the court's liberal wing on key issues such as abortion rights, gay rights, affirmative action, and the death penalty, including joining the majority to uphold Roe v. Wade in Planned Parenthood v. Casey. His jurisprudence led to disappointment among conservatives and influenced future Supreme Court nomination strategies. Souter retired in 2009, enabling President Barack Obama to appoint Sonia Sotomayor as his successor. After retirement, Souter continued to serve on the Court of Appeals for the First Circuit for over a decade. Chief Justice John Roberts praised Souter for his wisdom, kindness, and dedication to public service.