It appears the President has decided to play Supreme Court reform roulette. In a move that’s sure to ruffle some conservative feathers, President Joe Biden’s proposing a code of conduct for the highest court in the land. Let’s take a closer look at why this matters.
Biden’s Three-Pronged Approach to Supreme Court Reform
President Joe Biden recently unveiled a trio of proposed reforms aimed at the Supreme Court. Speaking at the LBJ Presidential Library to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, Biden emphasized his respect for institutions and the separation of powers. However, he argued that current practices are far from normal and are eroding public confidence in the Court.
The first proposal calls for a constitutional amendment to clarify that no former president has immunity for crimes committed while in office. Secondly, Biden suggested term limits for Supreme Court justices, with each president appointing a justice every two years and justices serving 18-year terms. He also advocated for a binding code of conduct for Supreme Court justices.
The Ethics Dilemma
Recent reporting has shed light on potential ethical concerns surrounding some Supreme Court justices. Notably, Justice Clarence Thomas faced scrutiny for failing to disclose luxury travel, while Justice Samuel Alito raised eyebrows with controversial flags displayed at his home. These incidents have fueled calls for greater accountability and transparency within the nation’s highest court.
Recent decisions by the Supreme Court have upended longstanding rulings on abortion, affirmative action, and federal regulatory power, sparking Democratic calls for reform.
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/biden-supreme-court-reform-plan/
The Proposed Code of Conduct
At the heart of Biden’s reform package is the call for a binding code of conduct for Supreme Court justices. Unlike other federal judges, Supreme Court justices are not currently bound by any formal ethical code. This proposal aims to address this discrepancy and restore public trust in the institution.
The proposed code would likely cover areas such as financial disclosures, recusals from cases where there might be conflicts of interest, and guidelines for accepting gifts or travel. While the specifics of the code are yet to be determined, its primary goal would be to ensure that justices are held to the highest ethical standards.
Potential Impact and Challenges
While these proposed reforms have garnered support from many Democrats, they face significant hurdles in implementation. Given the current congressional divide, it’s unlikely that any of these reforms will be enacted before the 2024 presidential election.
Nevertheless, Democrats see these proposals as a way to focus voters’ attention on Supreme Court issues, which they believe will resonate in the upcoming election. The recent controversial decisions on abortion rights, affirmative action, and federal regulatory power have already sparked heated debates across the nation.
Conclusion
While Biden’s proposed reforms face an uphill battle, they have reignited important conversations about the role and accountability of the Supreme Court in our democracy. It’s crucial to engage with these ideas critically, considering both the potential benefits and drawbacks of such reforms. After all, a strong and respected judiciary is essential to upholding the constitutional principles we hold dear.
Sources
- Republicans slam Biden-Harris Supreme Court reforms: ‘Threat to democracy’
- Biden proposes major Supreme Court reforms as controversy continues to swirl around it
- Biden, at LBJ Library, blasts Supreme Court and proposes major changes
- Democrats May Have a Real Chance to Reform the Supreme Court
- Biden seriously considering proposals on Supreme Court term limits, ethics code, AP sources say
More from Around the Web
President Joe Biden calls for Supreme Court term limits:
The U.S. is the only major constitutional democracy that gives lifetime seats to its high court.
We have had term limits for President of the United States for nearly 75 years.
I believe we should have term limits for Supreme Court Justices of the United States as well.
— President Biden (@POTUS) July 30, 2024
End Citizens United supports Biden’s position:
Americans are tired of a Supreme Court that's sold out to billionaires and corporate special interests.
We agree with President @JoeBiden — it's time for reform. https://t.co/ALCVRMIqvk
— End Citizens United (@StopBigMoney) July 29, 2024
Glenn Beck Slams proposals as “anti-Democratic”
The most important & terrifying part of Biden's Oval Office address was his call for Supreme Court reform. SCOTUS is SHRINKING the size of the government & returning power to the people. So, Biden punishes it?! This is anti-Republic and anti-Democratic. pic.twitter.com/CR2ZbnqtGx
— Glenn Beck (@glennbeck) July 25, 2024