Justice Alito warns America must preserve 3 core principles regardless of country’s ‘atmosphere’

Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito said Americans should preserve freedom of speech, religious liberty and racial equality, whatever the political or social climate. Speaking at a Washington legal convention, he argued that these principles underpin democratic life, human dignity and a pluralistic society.

Alito said free speech must include expression that some people find hurtful, and that people should be free to follow any religion or none. He described racial equality as essential and cited the ideal of judging people by their character; the court is due to hear a challenge to a Maryland school admissions policy alleging discrimination against Asian American pupils. Alito, who joined the court in 2006, also said the 2026 midterm results had not changed his plans to remain on the bench.