Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr., right, administers the Judicial Oath to Judge Amy Coney Barrett, left, in the East Conference Room of the U.S. Supreme Court Building. Judge Barrett’s husband, Jesse M. Barrett, center, holds the Bible. Oct. 27, 2020. Photo: Fred Schilling, Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States.
Hearing her first arguments as a U.S. Supreme Court justice, Amy Coney Barrett on Monday asked about a dozen questions during two separate and complicated cases on interpretation of the Freedom of Information Act and the federal railroad retirement statutes.
Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. opened the morning’s argument session with the traditional welcome of a new justice. In an unstated nod to the coronavirus pandemic and the court’s remote operation, Roberts said a formal investiture of Barrett would take place “at a later time.” He added, “We wish you a long and happy career in our common calling.” Barrett made no comment in response.
