WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is embarking on a new term with a keen focus on pivotal issues regarding executive power and civil rights. Among the cases on the agenda are significant lawsuits concerning voting rights and LGBTQ+ protections, particularly the validity of various state bans on therapy aimed at altering sexual orientation or gender identity.
The complexity of Trump's executive power claims is likely to take center stage. During the term, the court's conservative majority has previously shown a willingness to uphold many emergency appeals from Trump's administration, although the depth of scrutiny may vary with more contentious policies, such as the imposition of sweeping tariffs and changes to birthright citizenship.
Initially set for Monday, the court will diverge from high-profile cases to resolve less controversial issues like a defendant's rights during criminal proceedings. However, as November approaches, attention will shift to how the court deals with Trump's economic agenda and disputed tariffs that lower courts have ruled exceed his authority.
Further down the line, the court will tackle Trump’s ability to dismiss independent agency officials without cause, likely revisiting a 90-year-old ruling mandating cause for such actions. As the justices proceed through this term, the implications of their decisions may reshape established legal norms and bear significant implications for the future of U.S. governance.
The upcoming rulings on the executive's reach and individual rights reflect a critical juncture in the intersection of law and political power, warranting close observation as the semester progresses.
For ongoing updates on this and other Supreme Court matters, follow coverage at AP News.
