Death of the Chief Justice

In Alaska, for an oral argument, and came back from dinner to learn that Chief Justice William Rehnquist has gone to his reward.

I'm reminded of the Justice (can't remember which one) who, when asked if he was going to retire, commented that he was appointed for life, and would serve out his term.

Conservatives have lost one of the stalwarts on a Court increasingly out of touch with the country, and sometimes, the Constitution.

I have a single, very fond memory of Chief Justice Rehnquist. When I was admitted to practice before the Court in 1992, he made it a point to personally welcome by name each of the three attorneys who had appeared in person to be sworn in. It was a nice touch, particularly since most attorneys admitted to Supreme Court practice will never hear their name uttered by a Supreme Court justice again.

RIP