Biden's Supreme Court Reform Proposal Sparks Controversy

Leonard Leo, co-chairman of the Federalist Society, criticized President Joe Biden's recent proposal to reform the Supreme Court, suggesting that the focus should instead be on Congress, which he claims harbors "real corruption." Biden's plan includes limiting justices' terms to 18 years, establishing accountability mechanisms for ethical standards, and amending the Constitution to remove presidential immunity for crimes committed while in office. Leo contends that if Democrats are genuinely committed to ethics reform, they should advocate for a ban on all gifts to public officials across all branches of government. Current regulations allow Congress members and federal judges to accept gifts, provided they are disclosed. Recent changes in the federal judiciary have clarified disclosure requirements, particularly regarding stays at commercial properties and third-party hospitality. Leo has been a focal point in Democratic investigations into lavish gifts received by conservative justices, and he has refused to comply with subpoenas from the Senate Judiciary Committee, deeming them unlawful. Despite ongoing inquiries, no evidence has emerged to suggest that justices like Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito have made decisions influenced by external parties. Leo defended the integrity of conservative justices, asserting that their rulings have consistently aligned with expectations. Meanwhile, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin praised Biden's reform efforts, emphasizing the need for higher ethical standards in the Supreme Court. Biden is set to address these reform plans during a speech commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act.