By Poppy Seidler age 13,
KidScoop Media Correspondent
On Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025, I had the privilege of interviewing Justice Amy Coney Barrett at the Ronald Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California. She was there to promote her new book, Listening to the Law.
At first, I was nervous—it’s not every day you get to meet someone who helps make decisions for the entire country. But as soon as she walked in, she made everyone feel comfortable with her calm and kind personality.
Justice Barrett answered every question carefully. She explained that at her family dinners, she can share what case she is hearing at the Court, but she can’t talk about her opinions or predict what the Court will decide.
When I asked her, “How did it feel to replace such an iconic justice like Justice Ginsburg? And what was she like?” she told me she had met Justice Ginsburg a few times and described her as smart, approachable, and gracious. She admitted that it was intimidating to replace someone so brilliant and respected.
I also asked about how she chooses her law clerks. She explained, “When I hire law clerks, I want to hire people that are really smart, but who won’t just say, ‘Yes, Justice, I think what you think.’ I always want to hire clerks who are willing to push back and tell me if they think I got it wrong, because otherwise they are no good to me.” I thought this was fascinating because it showed she doesn’t just want people who agree with her. Instead, she wants people who can challenge her and help her think more deeply.
Another fun question I asked was about her favorite Smithsonian museum. She said the American History Museum and the Archives are her favorites, and she even plans to schedule next term’s clerks for a visit to the Archives.
What impressed me the most about Justice Barrett was her humility. Even though she has such an important role in our country, she didn’t act like she was above anyone else. She was down-to-earth, respectful, and really listened before answering. That made me respect her even more.
Overall, interviewing Justice Amy Coney Barrett was an experience I’ll never forget. I learned not only about the Supreme Court and the importance of justices being fair and thoughtful, but also about the value of working hard, staying humble, and focusing on what truly matters. I left the library feeling inspired, and I hope I can carry those lessons with me as I grow up.
