U.S. Supreme Court Justice Retires

This video originally aired on Friday, May 1, 2009.

About This Video

During a press briefing at the White House, President Obama announces the retirement of U.S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter and discusses the process for selecting a Justice to replace him.

Discussion Questions

  1. Who is David Souter? How long has he served as a U.S. Supreme Court Justice?
  2. Explain the process of replacing a Supreme Court Justice. How is a candidate selected? Does he/she need to have judicial experience? Explain. How is the candidate approved?
  3. Which article of the U.S. Constitution addresses the Judiciary? According to the Constitution, what requirements must a person meet to qualify as a Supreme Court Justice?
  4. What are some of the qualities President Obama says he is looking for in a Supreme Court Justice? What is the rule of law? What qualities do you think a Supreme Court Justice should possess?

Keywords

JUDICIAL, Justices, U.S. Supreme Court

Related Subjects/Topics

  • The President
  • Separation of Powers
  • U.S. Constitution
  • U.S. Supreme Court

Speakers

  • White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs
  • President Barack Obama