Chief Justice Roberts says Supreme Court continuing work to address ethics amid scrutiny

Washington — Chief Justice John Roberts said Tuesday that there is more the Supreme Court can do to "adhere to the highest standards" of ethical conduct, an acknowledgment that recent reporting about the justices' ethical missteps is having an effect on public perception of the court.

Speaking at a law dinner where he was honored with an award, Roberts provided no specifics but said the justices "are continuing to look at the things we can do to give practical effect to that commitment."

He said he is "confident there are ways to do that consistent with our status as an independent branch of government and the Constitution's separation of powers."