description William Rehnquist Overview
William Rehnquist served as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1972 before being elevated to Chief Justice by President Ronald Reagan in 1986, holding the position until his death in 2005. He was known for his conservative judicial philosophy, advocacy of federalism, and views favoring states' rights over expanded federal power. He presided over the Senate impeachment trial of President Bill Clinton in 1999.
The Court under his leadership addressed major cases on presidential authority, election law, and individual rights.
help William Rehnquist FAQ
What changed at the Supreme Court when William Rehnquist became Chief Justice?
Rehnquist presided over a court that generally became more conservative on federalism, criminal procedure, and limits on congressional power. President Ronald Reagan elevated him from associate justice to Chief Justice in 1986.
What was Rehnquist's role in Bush v. Gore?
Rehnquist joined the majority in Bush v. Gore, the 2000 decision that stopped Florida's presidential-election recount. He also wrote a separate concurring opinion joined by Justices Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas.
Did William Rehnquist preside over a presidential impeachment trial?
Yes, he presided over President Bill Clinton's Senate impeachment trial in 1999. The Senate acquitted Clinton on both articles, and Rehnquist later remarked that he had done very little and done it well.
Why did Rehnquist add gold stripes to his judicial robe?
He began wearing a robe with four gold stripes on each sleeve as Chief Justice. The design was reportedly inspired by the Lord Chancellor's costume in a production of Gilbert and Sullivan's Iolanthe.
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