This transformation aligns with Goldstein’s gradual withdrawal from his Supreme Court practice, which featured nearly 40 arguments and an innovative approach of targeting cases the justices might consider. Without a bustling practice, the cost-effectiveness of maintaining the blog’s annual operating costs, approximately $400,000, became questionable.
The Backlash
Despite Goldstein’s reassurance that SCOTUSblog would continue offering “in-depth, comprehensive reporting on many of the cases, including all of the major cases,” and focus on broader thematic stories, the reaction was swift and strong.
University of Michigan Law School professor Christopher J. Walker expressed his disappointment, lamenting the shift from substantive content to TikTok and “hotter takes.” Elections analyst Sean Trende called it a “real loss” for SCOTUS enthusiasts. Law professor Josh Blackman even penned a column titled “A Requiem For SCOTUSBlog,” acknowledging the profound impact the blog has had and speculating on the diminishing influence of less frequently updated sites.
The Future of SCOTUSblog
In an exclusive conversation with Law360, Tom Goldstein shared his perspective on the evolution of SCOTUSblog and the concerns raised about its future. He discussed his upcoming career endeavors and shed light on the blog’s revamped direction, assuring readers that it will continue to provide comprehensive reporting on significant cases while exploring broader themes.
