In a candid interview on CBS Mornings aired on February 10, 2026, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson offered a glimpse into the inner workings of the nation's highest court. As the first Black woman to serve on the bench, Jackson emphasized the justices' ability to maintain collegiality despite profound ideological differences. Her comments come at a time when the court faces intense scrutiny over politically charged cases, including those tied to former President Donald Trump's policies.
Collegial Atmosphere Amid Ideological Clashes
Justice Jackson described the Supreme Court as a model for civil discourse in an increasingly polarized America. "The court is very good at compartmentalizing," she told co-hosts Gayle King, Tony Dokoupil, and Nate Burleson. "We focus on our work. We work very hard and come up with our own individual opinions on the law."
She highlighted how the nine justices, hailing from diverse backgrounds and viewpoints, have learned to navigate disagreements constructively. "We're always thinking about the law in different ways," Jackson explained. "We've adapted to being in an environment with people who have very strongly held but different views." This collegial spirit, she noted, fosters productive deliberations rather than personal animosities.
Learning to Disagree Without Being Disagreeable
Jackson's remarks underscore a deliberate effort among the justices to separate professional duties from personal interactions. Off the bench, they share meals, attend events, and build relationships that humanize their debates. This approach, according to Jackson, serves as "a model for learning how to disagree without being disagreeable." In an era of heated political rhetoric, her perspective offers a blueprint for healthier public dialogue.
Background: Trailblazing Path to the Supreme Court
Sworn in nearly four years ago in June 2022, Justice Jackson made history as the first Black woman confirmed to the Supreme Court. Nominated by President Joe Biden, she brought a wealth of experience from her time as a federal judge, public defender, and member of the U.S. Sentencing Commission. Her appointment was celebrated as a milestone for diversity on the bench, reflecting America's evolving judicial landscape.
Since joining, Jackson has not shied away from voicing sharp critiques, particularly in cases involving executive power. She has emerged as a vocal opponent of expansive presidential actions, especially those from the Trump administration. Her dissents often blend rigorous legal analysis with pointed commentary on broader implications for democracy and equity.
Notable Dissent in the Birthright Citizenship Case
One of Jackson's most prominent stances came in a 2025 case challenging a Trump executive order aimed at ending birthright citizenship—a core constitutional right under the 14th Amendment. In her solo dissent, Jackson lambasted the order as "not only truly unfortunate, but also hubristic and senseless." The majority, including a five-justice bloc led by Justice Amy Coney Barrett, allowed the administration to proceed, but not without rebuke.
Barrett's opinion fired back at Jackson's arguments, calling her dissent a "startling line of attack." This exchange exemplified the court's intellectual rigor, where even allies in collegiality engage in robust debate. The ruling curtailed federal judges' power to issue nationwide injunctions, reshaping how lower courts handle executive policies.
Navigating Upcoming High-Stakes Cases
As the Supreme Court grapples with a docket heavy on contentious issues, Jackson addressed the deliberate pace of its decision-making. Cases involving Trump's proposed tariffs on imports, for instance, raise complex questions about trade authority, economic policy, and separation of powers. "There are lots of nuanced legal issues that the court has to thoroughly consider," she said.
The justices' process involves extended deliberations, where each member drafts opinions and responds to colleagues' views. "We actually deliberate over a period of time where each of the justices decides how they feel about the issues and writes, and it takes a while to write," Jackson elaborated. This methodical approach ensures thoroughness but can frustrate those seeking swift resolutions to national debates.
Balancing Speed and Depth in Judicial Review
Jackson's insights reveal the tension between the court's role as a stabilizing force and public demands for timely rulings. With cases on voting rights, environmental regulations, and reproductive freedoms pending, the justices' commitment to depth over haste is both a strength and a point of criticism. Yet, as Jackson implied, this rigor upholds the rule of law in turbulent times.
'Lovely One': A Message of Resilience for Young Readers
Beyond the bench, Justice Jackson is promoting the young adult edition of her memoir, Lovely One, released in early 2026. The book weaves personal anecdotes with lessons on perseverance, drawing from her journey from a Miami suburb to the Supreme Court. A standout feature is a transcript of a 1987 high school debate speech, where a teenage Jackson urged audiences to embrace the present amid overwhelming circumstances.
"The point of the speech was to really get people to focus on the moment and try not to be so overwhelmed by the circumstance," she reflected during the interview. Tailored for younger audiences, Lovely One aims to inspire the next generation to engage civically and pursue justice.
Addressing National Divisions
Jackson's optimism shines through in her views on America's current divisions. Acknowledging historical precedents like the Civil War and civil rights struggles, she asserted, "We've certainly had other periods in our history in which we've been divided and we've come through them." Her advice? "If people really focus on their own values and the things that matter to them, if they invest in their communities and in their loved ones, we will make it through."
This message resonates deeply in 2026, as political tensions simmer post-2024 elections. Jackson's blend of judicial wisdom and personal storytelling positions her as a unifying figure, bridging legal analysis with everyday inspiration.
Looking Ahead: Jackson's Enduring Impact
Justice Jackson's interview not only humanizes the Supreme Court but also reaffirms its role in modeling democratic ideals. As the justices tackle Trump's tariffs and other pivotal matters, her emphasis on collegiality offers hope that even in disagreement, progress is possible. For Everythiiing.com readers, Jackson's story is a reminder of the power of diverse voices in shaping a more just society.
With her book gaining traction and her opinions influencing landmark rulings, Ketanji Brown Jackson continues to redefine what it means to serve on America's highest court. In a divided nation, her call to focus on values and community investment feels more urgent than ever.
