The Supreme Court, in a 5-3 decision, granted death row inmate Richard Glossip a new trial, reversing the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals. The majority opinion, authored by Justice Sotomayor, cited the prosecution’s failure to disclose key evidence of the key witness’s mental illness and drug use. Justice Thomas, dissenting, sharply criticized the majority for “stretching the law at every turn” to prevent Glossip’s execution, arguing the Court disregarded established legal principles and the victim’s family’s wishes. The case is remanded for further proceedings consistent with the Court’s ruling.
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The Supreme Court refused to reconsider the 2000 Hill v. Colorado precedent upholding abortion clinic buffer zones, rejecting challenges to similar laws in Illinois and New Jersey. This decision, a setback for anti-abortion protesters, maintains the legality of these zones despite arguments that they violate free speech rights. Justices Alito and Thomas dissented, arguing the Court should overturn Hill, while lower courts remain bound by its ruling. The Court’s refusal comes amid increased protests targeting clinics since the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
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A US appeals court refused the Trump administration’s request to immediately halt a lower court’s block on an executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship for some immigrant children. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals will conduct a full review of the case in June. The administration argued the order was crucial to immigration reform, while opposing states contended it violated the 14th Amendment. The appeals court majority found the administration failed to demonstrate an urgent need for immediate action.
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The Trump administration issued a 14-day ultimatum to schools and universities, demanding the elimination of all diversity initiatives using “racial preferences” in admissions, financial aid, and hiring to avoid losing federal funding. This sweeping directive, citing the 2023 Supreme Court ruling against race-based admissions, aims to rectify perceived discrimination against white and Asian students. The order has sparked significant backlash from civil rights and education groups, who worry its ambiguity will chill even legally sound race-related initiatives. The administration also cut $600 million in grants for teacher training programs promoting “divisive” concepts. The resulting confusion and uncertainty affect various aspects of campus life, from college admissions essays to financial aid, leaving institutions grappling with compliance and potential legal ramifications.
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In his first month, the Trump administration overstepped its constitutional authority, undermining Congress and the judiciary. This involved dismantling government institutions and prioritizing political retribution over campaign promises. The Supreme Court’s rulings, including granting Trump immunity from prosecution and blocking efforts to bar him from office, facilitated this disregard for legal and constitutional limits on presidential power. This has emboldened Trump to act with impunity, raising serious concerns about the future of the rule of law and the potential for further constitutional erosion. Lower courts may act as a check on Trump’s actions until the Supreme Court intervenes again.
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President Trump appealed to the Supreme Court, citing its July 1, 2024 ruling granting presidents near-absolute immunity, after a lower court blocked his dismissal of special counsel Hampton Dellinger. The appeal hinges on the Supreme Court’s assertion of the president’s “unrestricted power” to remove executive officers. Acting Solicitor General Harris argued that preventing the president from exercising this power severely harms the executive branch and separation of powers. A lower court judge reinstated Dellinger, criticizing the White House for the disruption caused by the firing.
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A Rhode Island federal judge ruled that the White House defied a court order to release federal grant money, marking the first explicit declaration of White House disobedience of a judicial mandate. While the White House maintains the legality of its actions, this defiance represents a direct challenge to the judiciary’s authority. Conservative groups, meanwhile, accuse the judge of overstepping his authority, highlighting a growing conflict between the executive and judicial branches. The Supreme Court’s forthcoming decision will be critical in determining the future balance of power and the judiciary’s independence.
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A second federal judge issued a nationwide preliminary injunction against President Trump’s executive order attempting to end birthright citizenship, deeming it likely unconstitutional. The judge’s ruling cites the order’s conflict with the 14th Amendment, established Supreme Court precedent, and contradicts over two centuries of US birthright citizenship practices. The injunction, granted in response to a lawsuit filed by pregnant women and immigrant-rights groups, will remain in effect pending further legal proceedings. The administration is expected to appeal, potentially leading the case to the Supreme Court.
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John Q. Hosedrinker