Trump Plan to Pack Supreme Court Foiled by the Voters and Congress
Summary
Michael Waltman of the Brennan Center for Justice outlines six proposals to reform the U.S. Supreme Court, including term limits, ethics enforcement, and transparency for the shadow docket. The discussion highlights how Congress can use its constitutional authority to set court size and rules, countering the current lack of accountability. Waltman emphasizes that public support for reforms like term limits is high and notes the political momentum for change following recent controversial rulings.
Topics discussed
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Introduction: Midterms and Supreme Court Reform
Guest Introduction: Michael Waltman of Brennan Center
Overview of Brennan Center and Democracy Solutions
Six Solutions to Reform the Supreme Court
Constitutional Basis for Congressional Power Over Court
Historical Context of Judicial Review and Court Power
Current Court Activism and Bipartisan Momentum
The Shadow Docket and State Constitutional Protections
Legislative Progress: Term Limits and Co-Sponsors
Proposal: 18-Year Terms and Regular Appointments
Public Support and Implementation of Term Limits
Discussion on Court Expansion and Long Tenures
FDR's Court Packing and Political Risks of Expansion
Brennan Center Stance on Court Expansion
Supreme Court Ethics: Lack of Code and Enforcement
Legislative Mechanisms for Ethics Enforcement
Congressional Momentum and Key Lawmakers
Shadow Docket Limits and Congressional Jurisdiction
Congressional Abdication and Fast-Track Legislation
Standing and Political Question Doctrine
Major Questions Doctrine and Striking Down Laws
Transparency: Cameras in the Courtroom
Diversifying Judicial Backgrounds and Nomination Process
Conclusion: Public Demand for Accountability
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