Yes sending a message to the other Jurists.
Sending a message to everyone.
If the Progressives make a massive power grab, they just sent a message:
1) We can kill people. Even a justice on the Supreme Court. Cross us, and you are dead.
2) People will talk. They will suspect. They will say, "I think that guy was murdered."
3) And we don't care. We will get away with it. We are untouchable. We will even leave the pillow in place. So that you know that we have no fear.