Biden has dropped out of the 2024 race and now he is targeting the Supreme Court even harder.
President Biden is set to announce a sweeping plan aimed at “reforming” the Supreme Court, according to recent reports. The proposal, which will be revealed on Monday during his visit to the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library in Austin, represents a significant shift in how the nation’s highest court operates.
At 81 years old, President Biden’s plan is expected to include several key elements: term limits for justices, the implementation of a strict code of ethics, and a constitutional amendment to limit the immunity granted to presidents and other public officials. Biden’s push for these reforms underscores his belief in the need for significant changes to preserve the integrity of American democracy.
In a recent Oval Office address, Biden highlighted Supreme Court reform as a top priority for his remaining time in office. His remarks, which also announced his withdrawal from the presidential race, emphasized the importance of ensuring that the judicial system remains accountable and fair.
However, Biden’s ambitious plan faces substantial hurdles. Enacting term limits and a code of ethics for Supreme Court justices would require congressional legislation, which is unlikely given the current polarized state of Congress. With only six months left in his presidency, securing such legislative changes may prove challenging.
Furthermore, Biden’s proposal for a constitutional amendment to limit presidential immunity would be an arduous process. This amendment would need to gain support from two-thirds of both the House and the Senate or be ratified by three-fourths of state legislatures, a process that necessitates considerable political alignment and support.
The push for reform is driven in part by recent controversies, including the Supreme Court’s affirmation of absolute immunity for presidents, a decision that has sparked debate, particularly following former President Donald Trump’s tenure. Additionally, calls for ethics reform have intensified after revelations about Justice Clarence Thomas’s undisclosed trips with a wealthy Republican donor, raising concerns about the influence of money on the judiciary.
The debate over Supreme Court reform reflects broader concerns about the judiciary’s role and the need for greater transparency and accountability in its operations. While Biden’s proposal represents a bold attempt to address these issues, its success will depend on navigating the complex legislative and political landscape.