FeedTen Minutes With Jeffrey Toobin
The New Yorker columnist and legal analysts talks about the Supreme Court and more
Jeffrey Toobin is a New Yorker staff writer, CNN analyst, and author of five books. We talked with him at his Sherman home about his transition from lawyer to journalist, his views on the Supreme Court, and his most attentive audience, his dog, Thunder. Toobin will speak June 27 as part of the Kent Memorial Library’s Spring Lecture series, The Supreme Court in American Life.
You have the rare ability to make legal matters accessible and interesting. Where does that come from?
Translating legalese into English and making legal concepts interesting to non-lawyers has been my goal and a big part of my career.
Do people at cocktail parties talk legal cases with you?
It’s a good test of how hot a case is if people want to talk about it.
You are a sport aficionado. Did you ever want to be a sports writer?
The most fun I ever had writing at The New Yorker was four years ago when I took my son Adam to Germany to cover the World Cup.
What was your favorite story to cover?
In terms of sheer unpredictably and importance I would say the recount in Florida, between Bush and Gore.
Why?
It combined an absolutely unpredictable series of events, and it was of enormous consequence to the world.
How did you such access to write Nine?
I’d been covering the courts for years so I had credibility with justices. Also I think at least some justices felt it was important that the public understand what they do.
Will having two women there have a real effect on the profile of the Court?
By in large, women justices see cases the same way as male justices. But we are approaching a moment when the appointment of a woman justice is becoming routine and that alone is true progress.
Will the Obama administration significantly change the Supreme Court?
Two appointments is always a big deal, but it will be much greater if any of the conservative justices leave.
Should the Senate pass judgment on a potential justice’s point of view, or just his or her competence?
The Senate should examine ideology, not just competence, but the Senate has largely given up on that responsibility because the President’s party wants to see that nominee confirmed.
Would you be interested in serving on the Supreme Court?
Yes, 100 percent, I’d be interested in serving on the Supreme Court, and 100 percent I will never be on it.
The Supreme Court is so mysterious to so many. Is that ever going to change?
If they televised the proceedings, it would make the court less mysterious.
Tell me something you’ve never told anyone before.
When I walk my dog Thunder I often discuss what I’m working on with him. He never criticizes my ideas.
What are your ties to Litchfield County?
I grew up in New York City, and my parents bought a second home in Sherman in 1965, so I’ve been coming here for more than 40 years. My love for this community is really intense.
