U.S. Supreme Court
As the U.S. Supreme Court heads toward its next session in October, it might be worth reviewing the action of “The Supremes” during its past session, particularly with regard to First Amendment issues.
The court ruled on three First Amendment cases and if you are free expression purist — and I am — you probably would be pleased. But as is often the case, a strict constructionist view of the First Amendment — a constitutionally conservative view — often equates to a “politically liberal” view.
The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled on an election finance issue that could alter the landscape of campaigning — again. The court’s 5-4 decision on Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission struck down key provisions on and limitations to spending by corporate entities on elections.
The chambers of the U.S. Supreme Court represent a special place for Americans. And with that lofty status comes a fair amount of stuffiness.
The court deals with serious legal matters, and while from time to time, a sliver of levity makes its way into hearings, for the most part, the chamber takes on a signature that mirrors the seriousness of the issue at hand.
The U.S. court system historically leads the way when it comes to transparency in government. The Constitution established the right to a jury trial and with it came the longstanding belief that perhaps no part of government deserves more public scrutiny than the courts.
In the U.S., only one court operates in almost total secrecy — no access to its records, deliberations or rulings.
