President Joe Biden is planning to support significant reforms to the US Supreme Court in the coming weeks, according to sources familiar with the matter. The proposed legislative changes will include term limits for justices and the introduction of a mandatory code of ethics. This move marks a shift for Biden, who has previously been skeptical about restructuring the Supreme Court.
The legislative plan, which is in its final stages, aims to limit the tenure of Supreme Court justices, who currently serve for life, and enforce ethical guidelines. Biden is also considering promoting a constitutional amendment to eliminate the broad immunity granted to presidents and other state officials for actions taken during their tenure.
The initiative comes in response to recent Supreme Court decisions and ethical scandals, such as those involving Justice Clarence Thomas. These decisions have sparked outrage, particularly among progressive lawmakers, over issues like the repeal of Roe v. Wade, which overturned federal abortion protections.
Biden discussed the proposed reforms during a Zoom call with the Congressional Progressive Caucus, seeking their support. 'I'm going to need your help with the Supreme Court matter,' Biden told them. 'I've been working with constitutional law researchers for the last three months.'
Implementing these changes will require a lengthy legislative process and a majority in both houses of Congress. The House of Representatives is currently controlled by Republicans, and the Senate has a slim Democratic majority. A constitutional amendment would require a two-thirds majority in both houses.
Despite the challenges, the proposals could serve as a powerful campaign message for Biden. If Democrats win a sweeping victory in upcoming elections, they might have a chance to pass these reforms. Democrats have mobilized voters against the Supreme Court, citing unpopular rulings and ethical lapses among some justices.
Last month, Senate Democrats attempted to pass an ethics bill for the Supreme Court but faced opposition from Republicans. In the House, Representatives Ro Khanna and Don Beyer have introduced legislation to impose 18-year term limits on future justices. Khanna praised Biden for embracing the idea, noting that he first introduced term limits legislation in 2020.
- The White House has declined to comment on the specifics of Biden's plans. However, sources indicate that the president has been working closely with constitutional law experts to develop the proposed reforms.
- Former President Donald Trump has strongly criticized the proposed changes, accusing Democrats of trying to interfere in the presidential elections and undermine the judicial system.
- The proposed reforms come in the wake of a controversial Supreme Court decision that granted immunity to presidents for actions taken during their tenure. This ruling has significant implications for the ongoing investigations into Trump's actions during his presidency.
- Biden's push for Supreme Court reform is seen as a response to growing demands from progressive lawmakers and activists who are frustrated with the court's conservative majority and recent rulings on key issues.
