braking news The Supreme Court Creates a Lawless Presidency

3 months ago
12

The Supreme Court's decision grants the President broad immunity from criminal prosecution, significantly enhancing the power and reducing the accountability of the office. This ruling also reflects on the Court's own perception of its power and responsibility, as it disregards the Constitution's text, structure, and history in favor of a vision of an optimal order. The decision effectively shields Donald Trump from legal accountability for his actions, including those related to January 6, 2021, and sets a precedent that all official acts by a President are entitled to either absolute or qualified immunity.
The Court's move is seen as particularly dangerous given Trump's declared intention to use government powers against his adversaries if he returns to office. This decision departs from the precedent set during the Watergate scandal, where Nixon, though pardoned, was understood to be legally accountable for his actions. The ruling is also in stark contrast to recent statements by Justice Samuel Alito and Chief Justice John Roberts, who have asserted the independence of the Supreme Court from Congressional oversight.
The opinion, which lacks support from previous court precedents, could potentially allow the Court to exempt itself from legal process, much like it has done for the President. This decision not only remodels the understanding of former Presidents' legal responsibility but also raises concerns about the balance of power between the branches of government. The dissenting opinion by Justice Sonia Sotomayor warns of the potential for abuse, likening the newfound presidential immunity to a loaded gun.
Moreover, the ruling could enable a future Trump administration to engage in a criminal enterprise surpassing the Watergate scandal, using the pardon power to protect his subordinates. The decision, therefore, has profound implications for the separation of powers and the accountability of the executive branch

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