Biden Set to Back Major Supreme Court Reform Amid Rising Discontent
President Joe Biden is preparing to endorse significant changes to the U.S. Supreme Court, including term limits for justices and the implementation of an enforceable ethics code.
Biden's move follows growing outrage on the left over recent controversial decisions and ethics allegations involving certain justices at the high court, as Fox News reports.
The Washington Post first reported the desired changes, citing two sources briefed on the details. Biden has historically resisted calls for altering the Supreme Court, but increasing pressure from his supporters has led to a shift in his stance.
Proposals for Term Limits and Ethics Code
Among the proposed changes are term limits for Supreme Court justices and the introduction of a binding ethics code. This comes in response to several decisions from the Court, which have sparked widespread discontent, particularly on the left.
Biden's endorsement is also seen as a reaction to recent ethics allegations, particularly those involving Justice Clarence Thomas. These claims have intensified calls for reform and greater accountability within the highest court in the United States.
Recent Decisions Highlight Perceived Issues
The Supreme Court has made several controversial rulings on issues such as abortion and federal regulatory powers. These decisions have contributed to the growing call for reforms.
According to a transcript of a call obtained by the Washington Post, Biden mentioned that he has been working with constitutional scholars for the last three months to develop the reform proposals.
Reforms Would Require Congressional Approval
Many of the proposed changes, including term limits and an enforceable ethics code, would require congressional approval. This adds a layer of complexity to Biden's plan, as it would need to make its way through a difficult legislative process.
Additionally, Biden is considering whether to call for a constitutional amendment to eliminate broad immunity for presidents and other constitutional officeholders. This comes in the wake of a recent Supreme Court ruling that former President Trump was immune from prosecution for official acts during his first term.
Biden Criticizes Court's Decisions
Biden has publicly criticized the Supreme Court's recent decisions, particularly on presidential immunity, stating that the justices attack long-established legal principles in the U.S. "This decision today has continued the court’s attack in recent years on a wide range of long-established legal principles in our nation."
He emphasized his belief in the need for reform, citing the court's actions as undermining the rule of law in the country. Biden's statements reflect a growing sentiment among his supporters for significant changes to the Supreme Court.
Supporters Push for Long-Overdue Reforms
Biden's supporters have been vocal in their calls for reforms, especially following the ethics allegations involving Justice Clarence Thomas and others. These scandals have raised questions about the integrity and accountability of the Supreme Court.
The proposed changes, including term limits and an enforceable ethics code, aim to address these concerns and restore public trust in the judiciary. Biden's willingness to endorse these reforms marks a significant shift in his approach to the Supreme Court.
Need for Bipartisan Support
For Biden's proposals to succeed, they will require bipartisan support in Congress. This could prove to be a challenging task, given the current political climate and the divided nature of Congress.
However, the growing public discontent with the Supreme Court's decisions and the ethics scandals may help garner the necessary support for these reforms.
Potential Impact of Proposed Changes
If implemented, the proposed changes could have a profound impact on the U.S. judicial system. Term limits for justices would ensure a regular turnover and prevent lifetime appointments, while an enforceable ethics code would arguably enhance accountability.
These reforms, Biden says, aim to restore public confidence in the Supreme Court and ensure that it operates with greater transparency and integrity.
Conclusion
President Biden's plan to endorse major changes to the U.S. Supreme Court, including term limits for justices and an enforceable ethics code, marks a significant shift in his stance. This move comes in response to controversial court decisions and ethics allegations involving some justices. While the proposed changes would require congressional approval, they reflect a growing call on the left for reforms to restore public trust in the judiciary.
Biden's declared collaboration with constitutional scholars and his criticism of recent court decisions highlight what he feels is the urgent need for these reforms. As the plan moves forward, bipartisan support will be crucial to its success.