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President Joe Biden has proposed major reforms to the Supreme Court, a move that would mark a significant change in its operation. Speaking in Austin, Texas, Biden expressed concern that recent actions by the Court were inconsistent with the Constitution’s separation of powers. His proposals include a constitutional amendment to remove presidential immunity for crimes committed while in office, term limits for justices, and a binding code of conduct for the Court. While these reforms are unlikely to pass in a divided Congress, they are intended to rally progressive voters ahead of the 2024 election.
Vice President Kamala Harris, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, has endorsed the changes amid declining public approval of the Supreme Court, following controversial decisions such as the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Biden argues that the Court’s recent rulings undermine civil rights and allow presidents to evade legal consequences. His “No One Is Above the Law Amendment” seeks to ensure former presidents can be prosecuted for federal crimes.
Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, have criticized the proposals, arguing they threaten the Court’s integrity. The reforms, requiring congressional and state approval, face significant obstacles. Despite this, Biden and Harris hope the proposals will strengthen democracy and restore public confidence in the judiciary.