DON'T WAIT.

We publish the objective news, period. If you want the facts, then sign up below and join our movement for objective news:

TOP STORIES

Latest News

Biden to Propose Constitutional Amendment Aimed at Supreme Court Reform

 July 28, 2024

In a significant shift, President Joe Biden announced plans to introduce major reforms to the U.S. Supreme Court, addressing longstanding Democratic concerns in the wake of a provocative recent high court ruling.

Biden is set to propose constitutional amendments aimed at reshaping the Supreme Court and limiting immunity for certain officeholders, as Fox News reports.

On Monday, Biden will outline several changes to the U.S. Constitution intended to reform the Supreme Court, including term limits for justices and implementing an enforceable code of ethics. This announcement marks a departure from Biden’s previous resistance to altering the Supreme Court structure.

Supreme Court reform has emerged as a top priority for Biden for the remainder of his term. The change in stance comes on the heels of Biden's announcement that he will not seek re-election, a decision prompted by pressure from Democratic Party officials after a poor debate showing in June.

Term Limits and Codes of Ethics

One of the proposed changes includes instituting term limits for Supreme Court justices, which would require the passage of a constitutional amendment. Another proposal involves establishing a code of ethics enforceable by Congress to which that the justices would have to adhere.

Additionally, Biden supports a constitutional amendment aimed at limiting immunity for sitting presidents and certain officeholders. This proposal follows the Supreme Court's July ruling that presidents cannot be prosecuted for official acts conducted during their time in office, a case rooted in issues related to former President Donald Trump.

To amend the Constitution, a two-thirds majority in both the House and the Senate is required, followed by ratification from three-fourths (38) of the 50 states. Currently, specific details of Biden's proposal remain fluid and subject to change.

White House Declines Immediate Comment

The White House did not immediately offer comments on Biden's proposed reforms. However, in an address from the Oval Office on Wednesday, Biden underscored his belief in the necessity of Supreme Court reform for the integrity of American democracy.

"This decision today has continued the court’s attack in recent years on a wide range of long-established legal principles in our nation," Biden remarked about the recent ruling. He criticized the decision for undermining the rule of law and eroding various civil rights protections.

Biden has outlined several priorities for his remaining term in office, which include economic growth, defending civil liberties, and addressing gun violence and climate change. He reaffirmed his dedication to these issues despite his decision not to seek another term.

Biden’s Broader Agenda

"Over the next six months, I’ll be focused on doing my job as president," Biden said, highlighting his commitment to lower costs for families and support economic growth. He emphasized continued efforts to defend personal freedoms and civil rights, from voting rights to reproductive rights.

Moreover, Biden promised to confront hatred, extremism, and political violence, stressing that there is "no place in America for political violence or any violence ever, period." He renewed his pledge to protect children from gun violence and address the climate crisis, which he views as an existential threat.

One of the key components of Biden’s remaining agenda is his "cancer moonshot" initiative, aimed at ending cancer as it is currently understood. "And I will keep fighting for my cancer moonshot," he said, expressing his belief in the initiative's potential success.

Ensuring America's Leadership

Biden concluded by emphasizing the importance of Supreme Court reform: "I’m going to call for Supreme Court reform because this is critical to our democracy, Supreme Court reform." He reiterated his commitment to ensuring the United States remains a strong and secure leader of the free world.

These proposed reforms represent a significant pivot for Biden’s administration, reflecting both a response to recent Supreme Court rulings and increasing pressures from within his party. Biden's push for constitutional amendments and other reforms of the judiciary underscores a broader strategy to address perceived imbalances and reinforce democratic principles.

As Monday approaches, attention will focus on the details of Biden's proposed changes and the potential political battles ahead. Achieving the requisite congressional and state ratification for constitutional amendments will undoubtedly pose significant challenges.

Biden’s agenda for his remaining time in office extends beyond Supreme Court reforms, targeting a multifaceted approach to strengthen the nation's economic, social, and environmental fabric. By prioritizing these issues, Biden aims to leave a lasting impact on American governance and society.

In summary, President Biden's proposal to amend the Constitution for Supreme Court reform follows a controversial court ruling and aligns with Democratic calls for judicial changes. While specifics remain under development, these efforts mark an ambitious and comprehensive response to contemporary legal and political challenges.