Retired Judge David S. Tatel, who served on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit for 23 years, is set to release a candid and moving memoir next month. The judge, who had been blind since his 30s, opens up about his journey with blindness and his judicial career in “Vision.”
Judge Tatel, who many believed would have been appointed to the Supreme Court if Al Gore had won the presidency in 2000, reflects on his reluctance to talk about his blindness and how his guide dog, Vixen, transformed his life. Vixen not only provided him with physical independence but also made it easier for him to discuss his blindness openly.
In his upcoming memoir, Judge Tatel discusses how his blindness influenced his work as a judge, noting that it allowed him to focus solely on the legal arguments presented without being swayed by visual cues. He also reflects on his decision to retire last year, citing concerns about the direction of the Supreme Court and the erosion of democratic values.
Judge Tatel’s retirement allowed him to speak out against what he sees as a lack of judicial restraint on the Supreme Court. He criticizes the court for making decisions that he believes are contrary to the Constitution and disrespectful of congressional findings, particularly in cases involving voting rights and abortion.
As he prepares to release his memoir, Judge Tatel remains grateful for the impact Vixen has had on his life and is unapologetic about his love for his guide dog. The judge’s story is one of resilience, independence, and a commitment to upholding the principles of justice, even in the face of adversity.
