Reflecting on Justice Sandra Day O'Connor's Legacy

The First Female Supreme Court Justice's Moderate Stance and Cautious Approach to Law Left a Lasting Impact

Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, the first woman to serve on the Supreme Court, passed away recently, sparking reflections on her legacy.
O'Connor was known for her cautious approach to the law, often refusing to issue sweeping opinions and preferring to leave major decisions to the political branches and state legislatures.
Despite her cautious approach, O'Connor joined in the controversial decision of Bush v. Gore, which halted the recount in Florida during the 2000 presidential election, a decision that some believe marked a turning point towards a more politically driven court.
O'Connor's moderate stance on issues such as abortion, affirmative action, sex discrimination, and voting rights often placed her at the center of power in the court, toggling between its left and right factions.
Her retirement in 2006, largely due to her husband's progressing dementia, led to her being replaced by Samuel Alito, whose decisions have been seen as undoing much of O'Connor's legacy.