Clerks Quote by Elena Kagan
“I think the nine justices think the solicitor general is the 35th clerk.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Supreme Court Conference, 2020
Some judges view the Solicitor General as an extra, unofficial member of the Court.
In simple terms: Judges sometimes treat the Solicitor General like a 35th justice.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the influence of the Solicitor General.
Themes
judicial process
legal influence
court dynamics
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
legal
informative
When to use this quote
- court hearings
- legal briefings
- policy debates
- law school discussions
Key Concepts
constitutional law
judicial hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does the Solicitor General shape court decisions?
- Should the Court limit external influences?
A Different Perspective
The perception may overstate the Solicitor General’s actual power.
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