cover of episode Making Sense of the Election and What It Means for the Court

Making Sense of the Election and What It Means for the Court

2024/11/11
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Strict Scrutiny

Key Insights

Why did the hosts feel it was important to discuss their personal feelings about the election?

They wanted to acknowledge the emotional impact of the election, even though it wasn't their primary content, to avoid feeling disorienting and to connect with listeners who might share similar feelings.

How did the hosts describe their emotional state after the election results?

They described themselves as numb, surviving rather than thriving, and experiencing grief rather than anger.

What was the significance of the abortion ballot initiatives in the election?

Abortion initiatives passed in seven out of ten states, with strong support in states like Florida and Missouri, despite those states voting for Trump. This suggests a complex interplay of motivations among voters.

What concerns did the hosts express about the future of the Supreme Court under a second Trump administration?

They worried about potential retirements of Justices Thomas and Alito, leading to more conservative replacements, and the possibility of the court being depicted as more moderate if it occasionally stands up to Trump, minimizing its radicalism.

What was the main issue in the Voting Rights Act case added to the Supreme Court's docket?

The case involves whether it is unconstitutional for a state legislature to remedy a Voting Rights Act violation by drawing additional opportunity districts for minority voters, given the court's previous decisions on race-conscious laws.

How did the hosts suggest people should cope with the political climate after the election?

They suggested seeking comfort and support from friends and family, engaging in activities that provide energy, and not succumbing to nihilism while continuing to resist and support marginalized groups.

Chapters

Kate and Leah share their personal experiences and feelings about the election results, reflecting on their emotional responses and the impact on their daily lives.
  • Kate and Leah express their emotional responses to the election results.
  • They discuss the numbness and grief they felt in the immediate aftermath.
  • Both hosts reflect on the importance of processing their feelings and the need for hope and action.

Shownotes Transcript

After processing the election and thinking through what it means for the future of the Supreme Court, Kate and Leah dig into a Voting Rights Act case newly added to SCOTUS’s docket. They also tackle this week’s cases on the False Claims Act, compensation for hospitals that treat low-income people, the Fair Labor Standards Act, and federal securities law.