Takeaways from Alito's CBS News interview: His future on the Supreme Court, opinion in Dobbs and rise in heated political rhetoric
October 5, 2026 / 9:03 AM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Justice Samuel Alito spoke with CBS News about his future on the Supreme Court, his opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, and political rhetoric.
- Alito considered retiring but decided to stay on the court, believing he can still make valuable contributions.
- He acknowledged the rise in harsh criticism of the Supreme Court from politicians across the aisle, including Presidents Trump and Biden.
- Alito authored the majority opinion in Dobbs, which overturned Roe v. Wade, and stated that while he has lost friends over the decision, it required courage from the justices in the majority.
- He suggested that the precedent of Obergefell v. Hodges, which established the right to same-sex marriage, remains on firm legal footing due to significant public reliance.
- The interview touches upon increased security measures for justices following threats and harassment, particularly after the Dobbs leak and protests.
- Alito's first book, 'So Ordered: An Originalist's View of the Constitution, the Court and Our Country,' is set to be released.