The US Supreme Court, less trusted than ever, votes on major cases in June: Emily Bazelon explains what to expect
May 4, 2024
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Yale Law School lecturer Emily Bazelon discusses key upcoming US Supreme Court rulings on hot topics like abortion rights and gun control. The Court's dwindling public trust and accusations of politicization are unpacked, questioning its impartiality and legitimacy in a highly charged political landscape.
The US Supreme Court is facing record-low public trust due to politicization, ethics scandals, and controversial decisions, risking its reputation as a non-partisan institution.
Major cases like abortion rights and presidential immunity are being debated, highlighting the Court's crucial role in shaping democracy and legal precedents.
Deep dives
Supreme Court Justices' View on Presidential Immunity
The Supreme Court Justices debated the concept of presidential immunity, particularly in the context of former President Trump's claims. There was surprise over the justices' focus shifting from Trump's immunity claims to the potential limitations on a president's powers. This led to discussions on hypothetical scenarios and the implications of limiting immunity on future presidents. The debate highlighted concerns over whether the ruling aimed at legal standing or avoiding the issue during an election cycle.
Challenges to FDA Regulations on Abortion Pills
A significant case involving the FDA's authority to regulate abortion pills through relaxed restrictions was discussed. The FDA's decision allowing mail-prescribed abortion pills faced challenges from anti-abortion doctors. The legality of reducing restrictions on abortion pills, including the requirement for in-person consultations, was at the forefront. The case, affecting women nationwide, raised questions about FDA authority and accessibility of abortion pills across different states.
Supreme Court Deliberations on Homelessness Legislation
A case originating from Grants Pass, Oregon, focused on homelessness and the legality of criminalizing sleeping outside. Justices debated whether restrictions on homelessness violated the Eighth Amendment. The discussion revolved around the philosophical aspects of being able to sleep outdoors when no other options were available. The case highlighted broader policy issues related to homelessness, although it remained centered on the constitutional implications of prohibiting outdoor sleeping.
It’s a big year for the US Supreme Court. In June, SCOTUS will begin issuing decisions on a number of politically charged cases, including abortion rights, gun control, and whether former president Donald Trump will stand trial for criminal cases, just as the 2024 election season shifts into high gear. Yale Law School lecturer and staff writer at The New York Times Magazine Emily Bazelon joins Ian Bremmer on the GZERO World Podcast to unpack some of the biggest cases on the docket this year, whats at stake, and what expected rulings will mean for the future of our democracy. This year’s term comes as public approval for SCOTUS hit a record low. The Court is facing accusations of politicization following ethics scandals involving Justice Clarence Thomas and a string of decisions from the conservative majority that advanced Republican policy goals, such as striking down the federal right to abortion. The Court was designed to remain above the political fray, but with the stakes so high in a presidential election year, does it risk being seen as just another partisan institution?