But it was heartening to hear Judge Jackson affirm the promise of America. Too many on the left seem to think the U.S. is structurally, irredeemably flawed. President Biden has joined this narrative with his focus on “systemic racism” and “equity” in place of “equality.” Judge Jackson might or might not agree with the ideal of colorblindness, to say nothing of her views on specific controversies like the one involving Harvard’s admissions policies.

Yet she appears to see the best in America. Iowa Sen. Chuck Grassley asked Judge Jackson about a speech she had given quoting Martin Luther King, Jr. In reply, Judge Jackson said her address had described how “my parents, when they were growing up in Miami, Florida, attended—and had to attend—racially segregated schools.” What she experienced after being born in 1970 was totally different…

We expect to disagree with Judge Jackson if she is confirmed to the Supreme Court. But the progressives supporting her nomination could stand to learn from her about the country that has elevated her to such judicial heights.