Overview
- At a University of Virginia book event on Sept. 18, Justice Amy Coney Barrett said she would not single out President Donald Trump when asked whether his public attacks have increased threats to the judiciary.
- The remarks came after Trump renewed criticism of conservative justices on Truth Social following the Court's decision to bar his administration's USPS mail‑in ballot restrictions.
- Barrett previously told Congress in July that the justices expect roughly a 38 percent year‑over‑year increase in threats and that her home was targeted by an attempted swatting this spring.
- She characterized the danger as part of a broader toxic climate in Washington, saying members of both the House and Senate report receiving threats and describing how the job has affected her family life.
- The exchange adds momentum to the Court's push for more security money, raises questions about how political rhetoric shapes risk to public officials, and could increase visible protections and costs for justices.