Alito says Supreme Court can't stem rise of emergency appeals, 'not pleased' with Trump's rhetoric

Key Points:

• Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito expressed displeasure with the harsh rhetoric about the court from former President Trump and his administration, emphasizing that while criticism is a right, inflammatory language is problematic and harms public trust in the court.
• Alito, known for authoring the decision that overturned Roe v. Wade, rejected the characterization of his rulings as aligned with the "Make America Great Again" agenda, stating he decides cases solely on their merits regardless of the president in office.
• He noted a rise in emergency decisions by the court, attributing it to increased executive orders by presidents that lead to swift legal challenges, and suggested this trend is likely to continue without changes in how policies are enacted.
• Regarding his recusal from a major climate change case, Alito explained it was a "judgment call" influenced by his inherited stock in oil companies, which he initially thought did not require recusal but later stepped aside after further consideration.
• Alito's new book, "So Ordered," compiles his speeches on constitutional interpretation, religious liberty, and judicial philosophy, marking 20 years since his confirmation to the Supreme Court.