Retired Supreme Court Associate Justice David Souter, an appointee of former President George H.W. Bush, has died.
According to the New York Post, Souter was 85 years old when he passed away.
Although Souter was appointed to the high court by Bush, he later generated controversy by becoming what was described as a “reliable” liberal vote.
Souter frustrated Republicans over the years with various landmark decisions.
A New Hampshire resident, Souter reportedly “died peacefully” at his residence, reports indicated.
U.S. Supreme Court Justice John Roberts issued a statement in the wake of the news of Souter’s passing.
“Justice David Souter served our Court with great distinction for nearly twenty years,” a statement from Roberts read.
“He brought uncommon wisdom and kindness to a lifetime of public service.”
Roberts added, “After retiring to his beloved New Hampshire in 2009, he continued to render significant service to our branch by sitting regularly on the Court of Appeals for the First Circuit for more than a decade.
“He will be greatly missed.”
Rest in peace, Justice Souter.
As a trailblazer on the bench who was not afraid to cross ideological lines and stand up for his beliefs, Justice Souter will always be a role model for aspiring lawyers and jurists. pic.twitter.com/q8dlF4Yp6Q
— Eleanor #DCStatehood Holmes Norton (@EleanorNorton) May 9, 2025
Despite his distinctive service to the high court, he was a thorn in the side of Republicans on certain major topics.
The Post noted:
“Souter was confirmed to the high court in 1990 and went on to side with the liberal bloc on issues including abortion, freedom of religion and expression — as well as the disputed 2000 election.”
Given his status as a former Supreme Court justice, his death sparked plenty of well-wishes.
The news also provoked criticisms of his positions while he was active.
“May his soul rest in peace,” one X user wrote.
“May his memory be a blessing.”
Another X user wrote:
“He was yet another swing and a miss from a Republican president about a Supreme Court nomination.
“Sununu poorly advised a RINO GHWB to pick this man.”
Several high-profile Republicans and Democrats also offered their condolences across social media.
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