Ketanji Brown Jackson made history this week when she was sworn as the 116th Supreme Court justice, becoming the first Black woman to serve on the high court.
President Joe Biden nominated Jackson for the Supreme Court after Justice Stephen Breyer, 83, Breyer announced in January that he would step down at the end of the court’s 2021 term.
Jackson clerked for Breyer after she graduated from Harvard Law School in 1996.
“For too long, our government, our courts haven’t looked like America,” Biden said at the time of her nomination. “And I believe it’s time that we have a court that reflects the full talents and greatness of our nation with a nominee of extraordinary qualifications and that we inspire all young people to believe that they can one day serve their country at the highest level.”
Jackson secured bipartisan support — 53 to 47, with all Democrats in favor. Senators Mitt Romney, Lisa Murkowski and Susan Collins were the only Republicans to vote in favor of her confirmation.
In the Fall, the court will hold another formal inaugurating ceremony.
“With a full heart, I accept the solemn responsibility of supporting and defending the Constitution of the United States and administering justice without fear or favor, so help me God,” Jackson said in a written statement issued by the court.
“I am truly grateful to be part of the promise of our great Nation. I extend my sincerest thanks to all of my new colleagues for their warm and gracious welcome,” Jackson said. “I am also especially grateful for the time and attention given to me by the Chief Justice and by Justice Breyer. Justice Breyer has been a personal friend and mentor of mine for the past two decades, in addition to being part of today’s official act.”
