Supreme Court Justices Make Rare Capitol Hill Appearance to Seek Security Funding

Amy Coney Barrett and Elena Kagan testified together for the first time since 2019, citing a rise in threats against justices and their families.

Supreme Court Justices Amy Coney Barrett and Elena Kagan testified before Congress on Tuesday, an unusual joint appearance aimed at securing additional funding to protect the court amid what they described as a persistent rise in threats, according to The Hill and PBS NewsHour.

It was the first time justices had appeared before Congress since 2019. The hearing centered on the court's budget request for the coming year, which includes an increase of roughly $14 million to $14.6 million focused on security measures, according to The Hill and Fox News.

Kagan and Barrett, appointed by presidents of different parties, told lawmakers the funding was needed to defend against escalating threats directed at the justices personally. Barrett has said she had to explain the need for bulletproof vests to her own children, according to Fox News.

The testimony marked a striking departure from the court's usual reticence about its internal operations and finances, reflecting growing concern within the judiciary about physical safety in an increasingly polarized political climate. Lawmakers on the committee are expected to weigh the request as part of broader budget negotiations in the coming weeks.

— Compiled from reporting by The Hill, PBS NewsHour and Fox News.