The dictionary defines supreme as “highest in quality, most excellent, highest in power.” This definition and the recent disclosures of the behavior of several Supreme Court justices is enough to cause cognitive dissonance or, simply put, make one’s head spin. Do these members represent the most excellent? Hardly.

Kavanaugh, during confirmation hearings, declares his fondness for beer while being credibly accused of sexual misconduct. Thomas is long overdue for impeachment proceedings, with Alito close behind. Sotomayor used office staff to promote her line of children’s books. Another no-no. Chief Justice Roberts expresses concern that public opinion of his court is at an all-time low yet refuses to appear before a committee to address ethics concerns.

During confirmation hearings many swore their allegiance and respect for precedence. Precedence soon lost its venerability after they were confirmed. So, here we have a court that is heavily right-wing and reactionary, overturns precedence at the drop of a hat, is answerable to no one, has lifelong tenure, and as an extra added bonus, its members retire at full pay. The “highest in power” part of the definition of supreme seems the most fitting and should be the most concerning.

George A. Hite

Sidney