Austin News

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz has introduced a constitutional amendment aimed at maintaining the number of Supreme Court justices at nine. This proposal comes amid concerns from Republicans about potential efforts by Democrats to increase the number of justices, a move they argue could undermine the court's independence.

Senator Cruz stated, "For years, Democrats have openly said they intend to pack the Supreme Court. They seek to use the Court to advance policy goals they can’t accomplish electorally." He emphasized that such actions would challenge the Constitution's design and compromise the court's non-partisan role.

The amendment has garnered support from several Republican senators. Senator Chuck Grassley commented, "Democrats’ radical court packing scheme would erase the legitimacy of the Supreme Court and destroy historic precedent." Similarly, Senator John Cornyn remarked on Democrats using the legal system for policy advancement outside electoral success.

Senator Mike Lee highlighted the importance of protecting the court's integrity: "Radical Democrats will not stop trying to rig the decisions they want through court packing." Meanwhile, Senator Mike Crapo warned that increasing partisanship within the institution could arise from such moves.

Senator Shelley Moore Capito noted, "A nine Justice court has worked for our country for more than 150 years," arguing against changes driven by partisan goals. Senator Marsha Blackburn echoed these sentiments, stating that maintaining the current number is crucial regardless of which party holds power.

Other co-sponsors include Senators Bill Cassidy, Todd Young, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Jim Banks, Jim Risch, Thom Tillis, Bill Hagerty, Katie Britt, Tim Sheehy, Roger Wicker, and Deb Fischer. The amendment must be approved by Congress before going to states for ratification.

Background information reveals that top Democrats have previously expressed intentions to expand the Supreme Court. Former Vice President Kamala Harris and Senators Ed Markey and Mazie Hirono have all made statements supporting changes in response to perceived challenges within the judicial system.

The debate over court-packing continues as both parties navigate differing views on how best to uphold judicial integrity while addressing political pressures.