Justice Sotomayor Apologizes for Criticism of Colleague

The Supreme Court justice acknowledged personal comments about Justice Kavanaugh's background.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A close-up painting of a wooden desk with a simple brass nameplate, the surface reflecting warm, golden light from a window, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and the weight of the court's decisions.The Supreme Court's internal tensions come to light as justices struggle to find common ground.Waco Today

Justice Sonia Sotomayor has apologized for personal criticism she made about her Supreme Court colleague, Justice Brett Kavanaugh, during a recent public appearance. Sotomayor had suggested that Kavanaugh, whose parents were professionals, did not understand the experiences of working-class people. The comments were unusual, as justices typically avoid such direct personal attacks on one another.

Why it matters

The Supreme Court is meant to operate with a level of decorum and civility, even among justices who may disagree on key legal and political issues. Sotomayor's comments highlighted the growing partisan divides on the nation's highest court, raising concerns about the court's ability to function effectively.

The details

The controversy began when Sotomayor was asked about the court's ruling on immigration-related stops in the Los Angeles area. She suggested that Kavanaugh's concurring opinion showed he was out of touch with the experiences of working-class people. Sotomayor did not mention Kavanaugh by name, but he was the only member of the majority who wrote an explanation for the ruling. Kavanaugh later clarified that officers must not make stops or arrests based on race or ethnicity alone.

  • On April 15, 2026, Sotomayor made the comments at the University of Kansas Law School.
  • On April 16, 2026, Sotomayor issued a statement apologizing to her colleague.

The players

Justice Sonia Sotomayor

The first Latina member of the Supreme Court, known for her personal references to her own life experiences in her rulings.

Justice Brett Kavanaugh

A conservative justice appointed by President Trump in 2018, whose background growing up in a professional family contrasts with Sotomayor's upbringing in public housing.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I have apologized to my colleague.”

— Justice Sonia Sotomayor

“There are some people who can't understand our experiences, even when you tell them.”

— Justice Sonia Sotomayor

“This is from a man whose parents were professionals and probably doesn't really know any person who works by the hour or the piece like I do.”

— Justice Sonia Sotomayor

What’s next

It is unclear if Justice Kavanaugh will respond to Sotomayor's apology.

The takeaway

The incident highlights the growing partisan divides on the Supreme Court and the importance of maintaining civility and decorum, even among justices who may disagree on key issues.