Justice Amy Coney Barrett is facing sharp criticism from conservative groups after aligning with Chief Justice John Roberts and the court’s liberal justices in two recent rulings.
In a significant decision, Barrett joined the majority to uphold birthright citizenship, a principle enshrined in the 14th Amendment. The ruling maintained that children born on U.S. soil are automatically citizens, regardless of their parents’ immigration status.
Separately, Barrett sided with the same coalition to preserve mail-in voting practices used in several states. The decision rejected challenges that sought to restrict ballot access ahead of upcoming elections.
Conservative activists and legal commentators argue these positions deviate from the originalist interpretation Barrett endorsed during her confirmation. Some have accused her of abandoning judicial restraint.
The rulings have reignited debates within the GOP over the direction of the Supreme Court. Barrett, appointed by former President Donald Trump, was expected to provide a reliable conservative vote.
Her recent choices underscore internal fractures among Republican lawmakers and legal strategists. Several prominent right-wing figures have publicly questioned her commitment to conservative principles.
Despite the backlash, Barrett has not commented on the criticism. Court observers note that justices often face political pressure but maintain their decisions are based on legal reasoning, not ideology.
