Except that public perception is vital for the sanctity of a neutral Supreme Court, he said. Justices have in the past recused themselves in cases where a good friend is arguing before the court, Bassetti noted. The nine-member Supreme Court doesn't have the power to enforce judgments, relying instead on the public's will to comply with its mandates. Because at the end of the day, the force and moral authority of the Supreme Court depends upon the faith of the people." Without faith that the Supreme Court can make decisions in a dispassionate and honest way, Bassetti fears the worst for the institution.

Source: CBC News September 29, 2018 07:52 UTC