With the Trump 2.0 administration on the horizon, ambitious individuals are seeking Supreme Court nominations, aiming to align their views with the administration's agenda, which includes controversial topics like birthright citizenship and racism against whites.
Judge Jim Ho's comments on birthright citizenship, suggesting it might be wrong in cases of war and invasion, are seen as a strategic move to gain favor with the Trump administration, which has historically opposed birthright citizenship for children of unauthorized migrants.
Some argue Justice Sotomayor should retire so President Biden can replace her with a younger liberal, fearing a conservative majority if she remains. However, this overlooks her health and the political reality of confirming a new justice under a potential Trump administration.
Recess appointments allow the president to bypass the Senate and install officials during a recess, lasting up to two years. Trump is considering using this power aggressively, possibly to fill his entire cabinet, testing the limits of constitutional provisions and party loyalty.
Trump is considering several controversial figures, including Matt Gaetz for Attorney General, Lee Zeldin for EPA, Elise Stefanik for UN Ambassador, Kristi Noem for DHS, Mike Huckabee for Israel Ambassador, Marco Rubio for Secretary of State, Pete Hegseth for Defense, and Tulsi Gabbard for DNI.
Matt Gaetz, under investigation for sex trafficking, leading DOJ would be unprecedented and alarming. His potential role could undermine the department's credibility and focus, especially given his history of controversial legislation and behavior.
Velazquez v. Garland involves whether non-citizens facing deportation can file motions to reopen on the next business day if their voluntary departure period ends on a weekend or holiday, creating a circuit split that the Supreme Court must resolve.
Ted Olson, a prominent conservative lawyer, notably took progressive stances, notably challenging Proposition 8 and defending DACA. His work on marriage equality is credited with paving the way for Obergefell v. Hodges, despite facing backlash from conservative circles.
Leah, Melissa, and Kate wade through more election fallout, including President-elect Trump’s proposed use of recess appointments to jam his cabinet picks through. Also covered: this week’s SCOTUS arguments, the tryhards auditioning to be Trump Supreme Court nominees, and why everyone should shut up about Justice Sotomayor retiring.