Becoming Justice Gorsuch | 2. The Stolen Seat

Becoming Justice Gorsuch | 2. The Stolen Seat

From Slow Burn by Slate Podcasts

May 20, 2026 · 45 min · Season 11 · Episode 2

About this episode

The episode explores the political events surrounding Justice Neil Gorsuch's appointment to the Supreme Court following Antonin Scalia's death.

When Justice Antonin Scalia died in February of 2016, the Supreme Court appeared to be headed for a 5-4 liberal majority. Instead, a staggering blockade by Senate Republicans and a shocking electoral upset helped steal a seat and clear the way for today’s conservative supermajority. In our second episode, we examine Neil Gorsuch’s politically fraught path to power and his time on the bench so far, including the unpredictability that has made him the high court’s wild card. Want more Slow Burn? Join Slate Plus to binge every episode of Becoming Justice Gorsuch—and every season of Slow Burn, including Becoming Justice Thomas . You’ll also enjoy ad-free listening to all of your favorite Slate podcasts. Visit slate.com/slowburnplus to get access wherever you listen.  Season 11 of Slow Burn was written and reported by Susan Matthews. It was produced by Sophie Summergrad and Joel Meyer. It was edited by Mia Lobel, Hillary Frey, and Evan Chung. Original music and sound design by Hannis Brown. Mia Lobel is the executive producer of Slate Podcasts. Our legal editor is Mark Joseph Stern. Special thanks to Dahlia Lithwick, Sara Burningham, and Patrick Fort. Episode artwork by Natalie…

Topics covered

  • Supreme Court
  • politics
  • conservative majority
  • Justice Gorsuch
  • Scalia's death
  • Senate Republicans
  • judicial appointments

Keywords

  • Justice Gorsuch
  • Antonin Scalia
  • Supreme Court
  • Senate Republicans
  • conservative majority
  • political blockade
  • judicial history

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Slate Podcasts, Acast

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