Everything you know about the U.S. Supreme Court is wrong

On this episode of "Deseret Voices," host McKay Coppins joins guest Sarah Isgur to explore her new book, “Last Branch Standing,” which serves as an intelligent person’s guide to the Supreme Court. Isgur argues that much of the common wisdom and media narrative surrounding the court is incorrect, often because reporters treat the institution like "Congress-lite" or a reality TV show rather than a legal body.

The conversation delves into why the court has recently suffered a crisis of authority and how congressional paralysis has forced the judiciary into the role of an unlikely "culture war referee." Isgur also provides a fascinating look at the internal "high school lunch table" dynamics of the nine justices, categorizing them into three distinct camps: "The Deciders," the "Conservative Honey Badgers" and the "Lonely Liberals." From internal bargaining over opinion language to the growing reclusiveness of justices due to security threats, this episode dispels popular myths and reveals how the court actually functions.

“Deseret Voices” is hosted by award-winning journalists McKay Coppins and Jane Clayson Johnson, who go beyond the headlines to explore the stories, people, and ideas shaping our world today. Through thoughtful, in-depth conversations, the “Deseret Voices” podcast brings clarity and common ground to the complex issues defining our time. 

“Deseret Voices” is a Deseret News podcast, produced by Keira Farrimond, Creative Director - Video & Podcasts. 

Episodes of “Deseret Voices” drop every Thursday wherever you get your podcasts. Follow along and join the conversation on YouTube (@deseretnews), Instagram (@deseretnews), Facebook (@deseretnews) and X (@deseret).