The U.S. Supreme Court has requested $228 million in additional security funding for the 2025 fiscal year, a 53% increase from the previous allocation, according to a letter sent to Congress. The request, reported by multiple news outlets including the Associated Press on July 14, 2026, cites a rise in threats against the justices, including a 'swatting' hoax at the home of Justice Sonia Sotomayor in July 2022.
Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito have been lobbying lawmakers for the funds, which would cover bulletproof vests, security upgrades, and additional personnel. The increase follows a 2022 law that expanded security protections for Supreme Court justices and their families after a man was charged with attempting to assassinate Justice Brett Kavanaugh.
The request has sparked debate in Congress, with some lawmakers questioning the need for such a large increase. However, supporters argue that the justices face unprecedented risks, with the U.S. Marshals Service reporting a 400% increase in threats against federal judges since 2015.
