Harris proposes Supreme Court changes on Constitution Day

Vice President Kamala Harris has expressed support for significant changes to the U.S. Supreme Court, advocating for term limits for justices and the implementation of an ethical code from outside the judiciary. These proposals align with reforms suggested by President Joe Biden, aimed at enabling a Democratic president to replace long-serving conservative justices, thereby shifting the Court's ideological balance over time. Harris has also shown openness to the controversial idea of expanding the Court to 13 members, which would allow for a liberal majority if passed by Congress. Despite her support for these reforms, Harris has been cautious about discussing the Supreme Court on the campaign trail, likely to avoid alarming voters. Her staff, including spokesperson Brian Fallon, is aligned with the plan to transform the Court, reflecting a broader strategy among Democrats to reshape judicial power. Fallon has a history of involvement in left-wing efforts to influence the judiciary, including campaigns against Justice Brett Kavanaugh. The Constitution, completed in 1787, is interpreted by many current justices through an originalist lens, which has limited federal government overreach and reinforced the authority of elected legislatures. This interpretation stands in contrast to the Democrats' agenda, which seeks to alter the Court's structure and independence. The proposed reforms could fundamentally change the nature of the Supreme Court, raising concerns about judicial independence and the implications for democracy. As the Biden-Harris administration continues to navigate these issues, the potential for significant shifts in the judicial landscape remains a contentious topic in American politics.