C.J., Other Justices On Cameras in the Courtroom

Chief Justice Roberts is lukewarm on cameras in the courtroom. That is the most that one can say, based on the report of his remarks to the 9th Circuit’s annual conference. While he understands that video of the arguments would serve an important educational function, he said, “we don’t have oral arguments to show the public how we function. We have them to learn about a particular case in a particular way.” Other justices, including David Souter and Clarence Thomas, have also expressed reservations. Senator Arlen Specter introduced legislation to allow cameras in the Court in September of 2005.