Engagement & Controversy at Reagan Library

Shimi Valley – Jadyn Winsett nervously fidgeted with her new engagement ring while soaking in the lively atmosphere at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. She glanced around, taking in the nautical décor and various instruments, all the while anticipating a glimpse of the Supreme Court trial happening nearby.

Amy Coney Barrett, the youngest Justice of the Supreme Court, was just beyond the room.

Just the day before, Barrett had sided with the conservative majority in a controversial decision that allowed federal immigration agents in Southern California to detain individuals based solely on their skin color or Spanish-speaking ability.

This verdict sparked significant anger across Los Angeles, with many feeling that it violated the Fourth Amendment. Yet, at the Reagan Library, the mood was celebratory.

Winsett, age 23, and her fiancé were among a crowd gathered to hear Barrett discuss her new memoir, “Listening to the Law.” For her supporters, Barrett represented the ideals upheld by President Trump’s religious followers.

Two days earlier, at Yosemite National Park, Winsett’s fiancé proposed, making it a memorable highlight of their California adventure. However, meeting Barrett at this iconic location was a close second for Winsett.

“I kept texting him, saying we had to hurry to make it to the event. We were super excited!” Winsett said. “Barrett’s book apparently elaborates on how Judge Scalia approached ‘reading styles.’ It’s fascinating.”

During her talk, Barrett mostly avoided discussing the controversies surrounding her recent decisions, focusing instead on lighter topics, like Judge Brett M. Kavanaugh’s playful moments with mascots. Still, the ruling regarding detained migrants lingered over the gathering.

When questioned about the court’s “shadow docket,” she reiterated some of her previous statements, saying, “If the administration policies are deemed illegal, that poses real issues as we go through this litigation, so it’s essential to maintain the current injunction.”

Later on, Barrett expressed her thoughts regarding the Fourth Amendment, commenting on its ambiguous language. “When we talk about unreasonable searches, everyone might have different views on what qualifies as ‘unreasonable,’” she noted. “The Constitution leaves room for interpretation.”

In the evening, Barrett and her husband Jesse honored the memory at the Reagan Memorial, pausing near the symbolic representation of the Berlin Wall.

Members of the audience felt connected to Barrett’s faith-driven values. Some expressed their belief that she could lead to the overturning of Roe v. Wade. “I believe it was divine intervention that placed her on the court,” said Grobioel Dixon from Pasadena, who arrived hours earlier to ensure a good spot.

Others seemed transfixed not just by her legal prowess but by her calm demeanor during challenging moments. “She’s incredibly intelligent,” said Elizabeth Pierce from Newberry Park. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Some esteemed Barrett’s rulings as paving their paths toward achieving their American dreams. Shaun Chen, 52, celebrated Barrett’s recent decisions, particularly the one dismantling racially-based affirmative action in the Harvard case. “Her rulings could directly impact my child’s future,” Chen stated, reflecting on his gratitude as a Chinese immigrant.

Barrett’s financial disclosure revealed she earned around $425,000 in 2021 from her memoir.

As the sun set behind the hills, the event coordinator encouraged those waiting at the back of the line, “We’re going to start signing books!” Fans were reminded to leave their phones away for selfies, but an official photo opportunity was still there.

Julia Kiros, 23, waited eagerly with her mother for Barrett’s signature. “She’s a role model for me as both a professional and a mother,” Julia mentioned, with her mom, Gabby, mostly in agreement, albeit a bit hesitant. Gabby, a Catholic, voiced her concerns over the implications of Barrett’s abortion ruling.

Other attendees voiced their support for Barrett and the policies she represented, concern for their neighbors’ situations notwithstanding. “I’m very supportive,” remarked Kevin Libero from Palmdale. “She can help drive the president’s agenda, and I’m all for that.”

Pasadena resident Christian Dixon reflected on Barrett’s immigration ruling, expressing mixed feelings about its impact. “America is supposed to be welcoming, right? We have to honor that, but in a way that respects our country.”