Topic: Scotus

The Supreme Court is considering Watson v. Republican National Committee, a case that could end the practice of accepting ballots that arrive after election day even if postmarked on time. While any ruling is unlikely to be retroactive for past California elections, it could significantly alter the rules for the upcoming November general election.

The Supreme Court hears oral arguments regarding the legality of President Trump's global tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). While some media outlets describe the hearing as a "bloodbath" for the administration, Treasury Secretary Scott Besant expresses optimism. The case centers on whether Congress explicitly delegated taxing power to the executive branch or if tariffs fall under the president's inherent foreign affairs authority.

During Supreme Court oral arguments, TikTok's legal team argued that the app's algorithm constitutes protected free speech under the First Amendment. Justice Amy Coney Barrett questioned whether the "editorial discretion" involved in the algorithm would classify the platform as a publisher, potentially impacting its Section 230 protections. The court's focus on national security suggests a 9-0 lean toward upholding the divestiture law despite the free speech claims.

Supreme Court observers noted deep skepticism from Justices Gorsuch and Kavanaugh regarding Chevron deference, while Justice Amy Coney Barrett raised concerns about a potential flood of litigation if the precedent is fully overturned. Legal experts suggest the court may choose to dilute or chip away at the principle rather than striking it down entirely. The hosts argue that the administrative state has abused its power, citing ATF rules as an example.

A "SCOTUS Rapid Response Action Guide" is circulating among progressive groups like MoveOn and the Sunrise Movement. The guide provides slogans, chants, and talking points for protesters, such as "No confirmation before inauguration." The document is analyzed as a piece of political propaganda designed to coordinate opposition to Amy Coney Barrett's nomination.

A voiceover actress performs a parody of Dr. Christine Blasey Ford's testimony during the Brett Kavanaugh Supreme Court hearings. The segment mocks the use of "vocal fry" and the youthful tone of the doctor's voice despite her professional standing.

The hosts discuss a 1983 letter written by Brett Kavanaugh regarding "beach week," in which he referred to himself and friends as "loud, obnoxious drunks." They mock the media's "Nancy Drew" style investigation into the nickname "Bart" and debate whether Trump actually wants Kavanaugh confirmed or if he would prefer to move on to another candidate like Amy Coney Barrett.

Appearing on Bill Maher's program, Michael Moore urged citizens to surround the U.S. Capitol to prevent the confirmation of a new Supreme Court justice. Moore referenced the Hulu series "The Handmaid's Tale" to illustrate how fascism can take hold through small, incremental changes in societal norms. He argued that the current political climate represents a "bloodless civil war" for the future of the American judiciary.

Justice Anthony Kennedy announced his retirement from the Supreme Court after 30 years of service. Legal commentator Jonathan Turley notes that the timing is disadvantageous for Democrats because Republicans previously removed the filibuster rule for judicial nominations. The vacancy allows President Trump to fulfill campaign promises by moving the court further to the right.

Speculation arises regarding the future of the Supreme Court beyond the Kennedy vacancy, specifically focusing on Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Reports suggest she may be suffering from pneumonia, leading to predictions that another vacancy could occur before the 2020 election. The hosts discuss the inevitability of further court composition changes due to the ages of the sitting justices.

An anonymous producer provided a recording of a Republican strategy call detailing the timeline for confirming a new Supreme Court justice by October. The plan involves a July nomination followed by Senate Judiciary Committee hearings. In contrast, a clip of Representative Sheila Jackson Lee shows her reacting with visible despair to the news of Justice Kennedy's retirement.

CNN anchor Ashley Banfield discusses the ongoing legal challenges following the Supreme Court's marriage ruling, specifically focusing on state-level Religious Freedom Restoration Acts. The hosts comment on the "stern librarian" persona of the anchor and the chaotic nature of live on-the-spot news stand-ups.