Law: The Power of Justice William Brennan

How a canny liberal became the court's master strategist

Ever since Chief Justice Earl Warren retired from the U.S. Supreme Court 16 years ago, American conservatives have been waiting for wholesale reversals of the Warren era's liberal precedents. But despite six Republican presidential appointees to the high bench since then, the turnaround has not materialized. One of the most powerful forces holding back the conservative tide has been a small, slightly rumpled, elderly gentleman with a ready smile and a legendary gift for gab, William J. Brennan Jr. Court observers agree that the liberal Justice, even in the supposed exile of dissent, has emerged as the master strategist of the...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!