The 2024 presidential election is showcasing a sharp divide within the Democratic party regarding the behavior and tenure of Supreme Court justices. Vice President Kamala Harris has proposed term limits and enforceable ethics rules for justices to restore confidence in the court, contrasting with former President Donald Trump’s stance on appointing constitutionalist judges. Trump opposes any changes to the court and has criticized Democrats for wanting to expand it. The issue of ethics was further heightened by scandals involving justices like Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito, calling for a new ethics code for the court.
Both parties have introduced bills to impose ethics rules on justices and limit lifetime appointments, with a bill led by Senate Democrat Sheldon Whitehouse passing the Senate Committee on the Judiciary. However, the legislation faces opposition in the Senate from Republicans like Lindsey Graham. Advocates like Gabe Roth of Fix the Court argue that ethical leadership is needed at the high court independent of party lines, emphasizing the necessity for reforms regardless of political affiliation.
The issue of Supreme Court ethics and term limits is likely to remain a contentious point in American politics, with calls for reform coming from both sides of the aisle. As the country continues to grapple with the role and behavior of Supreme Court justices, the debate over an ethical overhaul and term limits at the highest court is shaping up to be a significant issue in the upcoming election and beyond.
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