Democrats Scared Of Biden’s New Plan
Amid ongoing debates about the future of the Supreme Court, two Senate Democrats up for reelection have hesitated to endorse President Joe Biden’s recent proposal for reforming the judiciary, according to the Washington Examiner.
On Monday, President Biden unveiled a plan that includes three significant changes to the Supreme Court: implementing 18-year term limits for justices, strengthening the ethics code, and proposing a constitutional amendment to eliminate any presidential immunity for crimes committed while in office.
The proposed term limits have stirred the most controversy. Senators Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and Jon Tester of Montana have refrained from committing to this particular aspect of the plan. Baldwin mentioned that she is still “evaluating” the term limits proposal, while Tester admitted he had not yet reviewed this component by Monday night.
Both senators, however, have expressed support for enhancing the ethics code governing Supreme Court justices. Tester emphasized that maintaining high ethical standards is crucial for everyone in government. “Regardless of which branch of government you serve in, it’s imperative to adhere to the highest ethical standards,” he remarked.
Baldwin highlighted the erosion of public trust in the Supreme Court, particularly following its decision to overturn Roe v. Wade last year. She also referenced recent ethics controversies involving justices as a factor in the public’s diminished confidence. “People in Wisconsin have seen a decline in trust in the Supreme Court due to its decisions and ethics issues,” Baldwin noted. “It’s essential to restore public trust through ethics reform, addressing the concerns about justices engaging in conflicts of interest and unethical behavior.”
Both senators agree that bolstering the ethics framework is a necessary step to rebuild trust in the judiciary, even as they deliberate on the broader implications of term limits.