John Roberts Leads US Supreme Court Rightward Shift Over Two Decades

Chief Justice John Roberts has led the U.S. Supreme Court since 2005, overseeing a significant conservative shift in American law. Under his leadership, the Court has expanded gun rights notably with the 2008 District of Columbia v. Heller decision and further rulings in 2010 and 2022, affirming individuals' right to possess firearms in their homes. The Court also reshaped political campaign finance laws with the 2010 Citizens United ruling, allowing unlimited corporate and union spending in elections, which increased the influence of wealthy donors and special interest groups. Roberts has been pivotal in decisions expanding presidential power, including a 2024 ruling that recognized presidential immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts. Despite some rulings favoring conservative policies, the Court has also delivered landmark decisions such as Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015, which legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. Critics argue Roberts has transformed the judiciary's role, steering it dramatically to the right and changing constitutional interpretations on abortion, affirmative action, and executive authority, marking a profound impact on American jurisprudence.