Chief Justice serves to remind that the Supreme Court is not a political actor and that judges are not engaged in policy-making, acknowledging that some decisions may be unpopular.

The remarks were delivered at a lawyers' conference in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and reported by NBC News amid broader scrutiny of the Court.

The comments come as public confidence in the Court wanes following a ruling narrowing the Voting Rights Act by striking down a majority-Black Louisiana district, a decision viewed as aiding Republican redistricting efforts.

The Court has expanded its fast-track 'shadow docket' to pause lower court rulings on issues like mass deportations and federal actions, drawing criticism from some liberal judges.

A light moment occurred when an audience member asked for clearer microphone use, which Roberts treated humorously as a protest but responded calmly.

Recent actions attributed to the Court include expanding the shadow docket, striking down Roe v. Wade, and granting limited presidential immunity for official acts; February saw a ruling finding some of Trump’s tariffs illegal.

The term’s major cases involve President Trump’s efforts to reshape the federal government, including the court’s prior ruling against Trump’s global tariffs and mixed reactions from Trump.

During the event, Roberts acknowledged longer oral arguments and said he would consider potential changes over the summer.

The Voting Rights Act decision has intensified partisan tensions, with Democrats and voting-rights groups calling for court reforms, and liberal Justice Jackson clashing with conservative justices over impartiality.

Roberts spoke about his career and the Court’s history, also noting his surprise and respect for AI’s capabilities while acknowledging it can err just as humans do.

The remarks fit into ongoing debates over abortion, gun rights, and the Voting Rights Act, delivered at a Hershey conference for lawyers and judges.

Justice Jackson’s dissent in the Louisiana redistricting order drew pushback from Justices Alito, Thomas, and Gorsuch, who dismissed her arguments as baseless.