Backlash Mounts in California Over Recent SCOTUS Rulings

Troubling Responses Against Recent SCOTUS Decisions In California

By Evan Symon, July 1, 2023

The recent Supreme Court decisions on affirmative action, refusing service based on beliefs, and student loan forgiveness have sparked a range of charged responses in California. These reactions echo the statements made last year about making significant changes to the courts in the wake of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling, which reversed the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision. While the fiery responses last year eventually died down, the latest round of decisions has once again brought the issue of court packing and term limits to the forefront.

Renewed Calls for Court Packing and Term Limits

Following the recent Supreme Court decisions, some Californian lawmakers have proposed adding more justices to the Supreme Court and instituting term limits. Governor Gavin Newsom has stepped up abortion sanctuary state policies, along with Oregon and Washington, creating a West Coast “offense” to protect abortion rights.

Additionally, Senate candidate Lexi Reese is calling for term limits on Supreme Court justices in response to the recent decisions, stating that a lifetime appointment is too long for justices to hold such immense power.

Governor Newsom’s Response

Governor Newsom responded to the affirmative action ruling, criticizing the conservative majority of the Supreme Court for “upending longstanding precedent” and disregarding the costs to society and students. He expressed concern that these decisions were taking the country back to an era of book bans and segregated campuses. However, he maintained that California‘s commitment to diversity, equity, and equal opportunity remains as strong as ever.

Lexi Reese’s Call for Term Limits

Lexi Reese, a Senate candidate, argues that term limits would allow for fresh perspectives and diverse voices to shape the Court’s decisions. She believes that this would prevent the entrenchment of power and create a more balanced and responsive judiciary.

A Troubling Lack of Learning From History

However, political experts have noted that the responses to these decisions show a troubling lack of learning from the past. They argue that instead of seeking solutions and working towards change, many individuals and lawmakers are continuously making the same old arguments.

David Duncan, a political advisor specializing in judicial issues, points out that throughout history, when major decisions were made that individuals disagreed with, focused efforts were directed towards reversing those decisions. For example, he mentioned Roe v. Wade, which was passed in 1973 and faced continuous efforts over the next 49 years to overturn it. Duncan notes that quick solutions, such as court packing or term limits, are not effective in the legal system. Real change requires time, effort, and a strategic focus on the issue itself.

It is crucial for individuals and lawmakers to recognize that the balance of power can shift over time, as seen throughout history in the Supreme Court, Congress, and the presidency. Therefore, it is important to consider the long-term implications of proposed changes and focus on working within the existing system to bring about meaningful transformation.

Conclusion: Looking Towards the Future

The recent responses to the Supreme Court decisions in California reflect a desire for immediate change and quick solutions. However, it is important to learn from history and recognize that real change takes time and strategic effort. Rather than calling for court packing or term limits, it is essential to engage in thoughtful dialogue, work towards creating positive change, and pursue effective strategies to shape the Court’s decisions.

As the responses to these decisions continue to unfold, it is crucial for lawmakers to consider the long-term consequences of their actions and find ways to create meaningful change within the existing legal system. The path to progress may be long and challenging, but it is through these efforts that lasting change can be achieved.