The Role of State Courts in Enforcing Rights and Influencing Federal Law

This chapter delves into the significance of state courts in enforcing unique rights provided by state constitutions, with a focus on the impact of diverse representation on the bench. It also explores the trend of state Supreme Courts becoming more conservative, influenced by money in judicial elections, and the challenges of a state-by-state strategy for rights expansion. The conversation emphasizes the importance of focusing on state-level initiatives to eventually impact federal legislation and cultural trends, with an emphasis on the role of public defenders and civil rights lawyers in shaping judicial decisions.