Ted Olson, former SG, has this essay in National Review Online, explaining why "why this conservative Republican is supporting Rudy Giuliani for president." The reason is judicial appointments. "Rudy Giuliani, I am certain, will strengthen our judiciary and respect and preserve its independence by appointing judges who will equally respect the role of the judiciary and the limits on its authority." (Hat tip: How Appealing.)

The Gallup Poll finds that 51% of Americans approve of the job the Supreme Court is doing. That's a bit low by historical standards, but it is well above the approval ratings of the other two branches. The report is here, free for a limited time.

SCOTUS whimper?: Tony Mauro at Legal Times writes, "The Supreme Court returned from a two-week recess today with a whimper, not a bang. It issued only one opinion [Landrigan], and granted no new ones, still leaving undecided around 30 of the Court's cases argued this term. It's going to be a busy June."

Gang Crime is increasing according to U.S. Department of Justice statistics. A story by Associated Press writer Lara Jakes Jordan reports that Justice Department officials believe that an increase in violent crimes committed by teenagers contributed to the spike in the national crime rate reported last year.