Justice Kagan Warns Congress of Rising Threats to Supreme Court Justices
Justice Kagan warns Congress about increased threats and requests enhanced Supreme Court security funding.
Why it matters: Rising threats to justices endanger judicial independence and court operations, highlighting the need for increased security resources.
- Justice Kagan reports a 38% rise in threats expected in 2026, after a 25% increase in 2025.
- Justices Kagan and Barrett testified before Congress on July 14, 2026, urging more security funding.
- The Supreme Court seeks a $228 million budget for fiscal year 2027, including $14.6 million to expand security staff.
- Chief Justice Roberts called personal hostility toward justices 'dangerous' and unacceptable.
On July 14, 2026, Supreme Court Justices Elena Kagan and Amy Coney Barrett testified before the House Appropriations Subcommittee to address escalating threats against justices. Justice Kagan cited data from the Supreme Court Police Department showing a 38% projected increase in threats this year, following a 25% rise in 2025. AP News These statistics signal a growing risk environment for the highest court.
Justice Barrett shared personal experiences, recounting a swatting incident at her home and a bomb threat targeting her sister. She noted, "I didn't expect that performing this service would put me in the position of explaining to my children what a bulletproof vest was." These accounts illustrate the proximity and severity of threats justices now confront. AP News
The Court has requested $228 million in its FY 2027 budget to bolster security efforts, including $14.6 million to hire six additional agents per justice. This expansion aims to strengthen both personal protection and courtroom safety. AP News
Chief Justice John Roberts addressed hostile acts toward justices during the hearing, stating, "Criticism of judicial opinions is understandable, but personally directed hostility is dangerous, and it's got to stop." Supreme Court Press Release His remarks emphasize the threat such animosity poses to judicial independence and institutional integrity.
This testimony underscores growing concern within the legal community about how increasing threats may impact justices’ security and the operation of the Supreme Court. The combination of firsthand accounts, official statistics, and budgetary requests presents a clear call for enhanced security measures to protect the judiciary's function.
By the numbers:
- 38% — projected increase in threats against justices in 2026
- 25% — increase in threats reported in 2025
- $228 million — Supreme Court’s requested FY 2027 budget for security
Yes, but: While the article draws from multiple reputable sources, including AP News and an official Supreme Court press release, expanding source diversity further could strengthen coverage of this critical issue.
What's next: Congress is expected to review and vote on the Supreme Court’s FY 2027 security budget request later this year, with debate on appropriations continuing through the fall.