Supreme Court of the United States

The Supreme Court of the United States, the highest court in the United States of America, is the head of the Judicial Branch of the Federal Government.

Current composition

As of October 3, 2005, the Justices of the United States Supreme Court, in order of seniority, are:

Related Topics:
October 3 - 2005

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During Court sessions, the Justices sit according to seniority, with the Chief Justice in the center, and the Associate Justices on alternating sides. Therefore, the current court sits as follows from left to right: Ginsburg, Souter, Scalia, Stevens, Roberts, O'Connor, Kennedy, Thomas and Breyer (who has been the junior justice for 11 years, the third longest period in history between appointments of an Associate Justice).

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Justices Scalia and Thomas are generally perceived as the Court's conservative wing. Justices Souter, Breyer, Ginsburg and Stevens are generally perceived as its liberal wing. Justices O'Connor and Kennedy are considered moderates and are hence the swing votes who often determine the outcomes of close cases. Justice Roberts is generally thought to be in between Scalia and Thomas and the moderates, but has not been on the bench long enough for this to be ascertained.

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On July 1, 2005, Justice O'Connor announced that she would retire from the Supreme Court when her successor is nominated and confirmed. President Bush nominated White House Counsel Harriet Miers to replace Justice O'Connor on October 3, 2005, and her confirmation is pending.

Related Topics:
July 1 - 2005 - White House Counsel - Harriet Miers - October 3

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