39 minutes agoBy Bernd Debusmann Jr, BBC News, Washington The US Supreme Court has always been a powerful force in American life, but its role is evolving. With nine unelected justices serving for life, the court is now more prominent in the country’s politics. In a significant decision to close its 2023-2024 term, the court ruled that ex-presidents, including Donald Trump, have immunity from criminal prosecution for actions while in office, although not absolute immunity.
Trump praised the decision as a win for democracy, but President Joe Biden criticized it as undermining the rule of law. The Supreme Court, historically respected and seen as a bastion of law, has become a political battleground in recent years.
The court’s nine justices are ideologically split, with six conservatives currently holding the majority. They are responsible for interpreting laws and ensuring government actions align with the US Constitution. Lower courts must follow the Supreme Court’s precedents, giving its decisions national importance.
Appointments to the court are crucial, as justices serve for life and can only be removed by impeachment. The recent dominance of conservative justices has led to a series of controversial decisions, including ending the constitutional right to abortion and overturning long-standing policies on affirmative action.
Calls for reforms to the Supreme Court have grown louder, with accusations of politicization and partisanship. Suggestions include term limits, expanding the number of judges in lower courts, and creating an independent ethics office. However, structural changes would be difficult to implement and may not be popular.
Despite the challenges and criticisms, the Supreme Court remains a key institution in American governance, making decisions that shape the country’s laws and policies.