description John Rutledge Overview
John Rutledge was an American lawyer and judge who became one of the six original justices appointed to the United States Supreme Court by President George Washington in 1789. He also served briefly as Chief Justice in 1795. The Senate did not confirm his nomination to that position, so his tenure as Chief Justice ended without a confirmed appointment.
help John Rutledge FAQ
Was John Rutledge one of the first US Supreme Court justices?
Yes. George Washington nominated him in 1789 as one of the Court's six original associate justices, and the Senate confirmed that appointment.
How did John Rutledge become Chief Justice in 1795?
Washington gave Rutledge a recess appointment to replace Chief Justice John Jay, allowing him to serve briefly before Senate review. Rutledge became the second Chief Justice and had the shortest tenure in the office. [US Senate](https://www.senate.gov/about/powers-procedures/nominations/a-chief-justice-rejected.htm)
Why did the Senate reject Rutledge's Chief Justice nomination?
Rutledge publicly attacked the Jay Treaty, which Washington's administration and many senators supported. On December 15, 1795, the Senate rejected him by a vote of 10 to 14. [US Senate](https://www.senate.gov/about/powers-procedures/nominations/a-chief-justice-rejected.htm)
Did the Senate reject John Rutledge's original Supreme Court appointment?
No. The Senate confirmed his 1789 appointment as an associate justice; the rejection came in 1795, when Washington nominated him for Chief Justice. [US Senate](https://www.senate.gov/about/powers-procedures/nominations/first-supreme-court-nominations-confirmed.htm)
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