In his recent year-end state of the federal judiciary report, Chief Justice John Roberts spoke of the role the courts play in educating the public. He praised programs in which students visit courthouses and observe the proceedings. Conspicuously absent however from the report was any comment on the ability of the public to observe oral arguments before the Supreme Court of the United States. Cameras in that courtroom have always been and continue to be forbidden.

We have repeatedly urged that the court allow its proceedings to be televised. We know of no good reason for the prohibition. Some justices have been quoted as expressing the concern that cameras might encourage “grandstanding” by lawyers or even their colleagues. Experience of televised proceedings in other trial and appellate courts has shown that not to be the case. Within a few minutes, participants forget the camera eye and focus on their important business at hand.