Andrew Cohen, contributing editor at The Atlantic, discusses in Supreme Court Review: The Tyranny of the Majority how four of this week’s controversial decisions from the nation’s highest Court were decided by one vote. Cohen’s piece is a solid reminder that, despite the complexity and nuance of constitutional law, it is the ballot box during presidential-election years that remains the most powerful force in the determination of Supreme Court decisions.
The future of same-sex marriage and voting rights, among other matters, rest in the hands of voters this November. Supreme Court decisions have wide-sweeping and significant controlling authority. With regard to sexual orientation, the court will be considering the validity of California’s Proposition 8 . On voting rights, the Court will be set to review key statutory provisions recently upheld by a federal appellate court.
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Joshua Newville is an attorney and mediator based in Minnesota. He litigates employment and civil rights cases, serves as a mediator for civil disputes, and provides employment law advice.