As the Supreme Court enters the final weeks of its term, major decisions on abortion, guns, and former President Donald Trump’s claims of absolute immunity are looming. These decisions come at a crucial time for the 6-3 conservative-liberal court, just before a historic presidential election that has been heavily influenced by past rulings.
Conservative Justice Samuel Alito is also facing criticism over controversial flags raised at his homes in Virginia and New Jersey. This adds to the tension surrounding the court as it prepares to deliver these landmark decisions.
One of the key cases before the court is Trump’s appeal for immunity from special counsel Jack Smith’s election subversion charges. The former president argues that without immunity, presidents would be restricted in their actions while in office. The court will have to determine whether Trump’s post-election actions were official or private in order to decide on his immunity.
Another crucial case involves Idaho’s strict ban on abortions, which does not make exceptions for cases where the mother’s long-term health is at risk. The Biden administration argues that federal law requires hospitals to perform abortions in such situations, setting up a showdown on abortion access.
The court is also set to rule on cases related to the January 6 Capitol riot, Second Amendment rights, social media regulations, and the power of federal agencies to approve and enforce regulations.
In a significant win for abortion rights groups, the Supreme Court upheld the FDA’s efforts to expand access to the abortion pill mifepristone. This ruling is a setback for anti-abortion doctors who challenged the FDA’s actions and leaves expanded access to the drug in place.
These decisions will have far-reaching implications and will shape the legal landscape in the United States for years to come. Stay tuned as the Supreme Court hands down these crucial rulings in the coming weeks.