Two U.S. Supreme Court Justices Ask Congress for More Security Funds Amid Rising Threats

Supreme Court justices Elena Kagan and Amy Coney Barrett have jointly appealed to Congress for greater funding to bolster security for federal judges, citing a significant increase in threats. The justices appeared before the House Appropriations Committee, marking the first time Supreme Court justices have testified on security matters since 2019.

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the threats against the magistrates have increased in recent years

Justice Kagan informed the committee that threats against judges have escalated in recent years. Justice Barrett shared a personal account, describing how her son witnessed her arrive home wearing a bulletproof vest, illustrating the palpable sense of danger. Both justices highlighted that current security details, typically comprising four to eight agents, are insufficient given the current climate.

The Supreme Court has requested $228 million for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins October 1. This funding aims to expand the Supreme Court Police force, enhance protection for justices both at their homes and while traveling, strengthen defenses against cyberattacks, and improve security at the institution's Washington headquarters with a new visitor control center.

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the incident in which her son saw her arrive home with a bulletproof vest

Justice Kagan reported that the Supreme Court Police estimate a 38% increase in threats this year, following a 25% rise last year. Despite the serious nature of the testimony, the hearing was described as cordial, with lawmakers expressing a willingness to approve the requested funds. Congressman Steny Hoyer of Maryland acknowledged the "very real threats" facing the judiciary and pledged that Congress would provide adequate funding to ensure the safety of all judicial personnel. The justices are scheduled to testify before the Senate on the same matter.

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we are aware of the very real threats facing the judiciary in the U.S., and Congress must provide sufficient funds to ensure the security of all judicial personnel.