U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson has responded to criticism from Republican Sen. Marsha Blackburn following calls for an investigation into her attendance at the Grammy Awards.
The respected Supreme Court judge says public scrutiny is an expected part of life in a high-profile public role.
Jackson addressed the controversy during a live appearance on ABC’s The View, where she explained that her presence at the event was tied to her nomination for Best Audio Book, Narration & Storytelling Recording and coincided with official outreach activities during the court’s recess period.
Jackson: Criticism comes with public service
Jackson described the Grammy experience as “extraordinary,” noting it was her first time attending such an event and that she was honored by the nomination.
“When you are in public life, criticism is part of the job,” she said. “Another part of the job — actually my job — is public outreach and education.”
She explained she was already in Los Angeles for a moot court engagement when the awards took place and saw the event as an opportunity to highlight her work and engage with broader audiences.
Jackson ultimately did not win the category, which went to the Dalai Lama, but she said she considered it an honor simply to be nominated.
Political backlash and investigation call
The controversy arose after Sen. Blackburn publicly questioned whether Jackson’s attendance at the high-profile entertainment event could affect perceptions of her judicial impartiality, calling for further scrutiny.
Criticism also referenced the politically charged atmosphere surrounding the Grammys, particularly due to performances and public statements by artists.
During the interview, Jackson stated that she had no control over speeches or political messaging delivered at the ceremony.
Outreach role of Supreme Court justices
Jackson’s remarks highlighted a lesser-known aspect of the Supreme Court’s work — public education and outreach during recess periods.
Legal experts note that justices frequently participate in academic, civic, and cultural engagements when the court is not in session, though such appearances occasionally draw political criticism.
Jackson, who made history as the first Black woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court, has often emphasized accessibility and public understanding of the judicial system as key priorities.
