Four pending Supreme Court rulings expected Thursday.

The Supreme Court’s Upcoming Decisions: What You Need to Know

As the Supreme Court nears its annual summer recess, there are still over 20 cases awaiting a decision that could have a significant impact on the country. This year, the court has yet to decide on four major cases that could potentially upend the country’s political trajectory and greatly influence the 2024 elections. The decisions are expected to be announced soon, possibly as early as Thursday morning.

Breakdown of the Cases

1. Affirmative action at U.S. colleges

One of the key decisions before the Supreme Court is the question of affirmative action in college admissions. Conservatives argue that race-based admissions policies violate the Constitution, while proponents believe they are necessary to increase diversity on campuses. A ruling against affirmative action would reverse a 1978 decision that allowed universities to consider race as a factor in admissions. The outcome of this case could significantly impact how colleges across the country operate.

2. Student loan cancellation

President Joe Biden’s plan to provide up to $20,000 in student loan relief is also under consideration. Conservative groups have sued, claiming that Biden lacks the authority to cancel student loan debt unilaterally. Congress attempted to block the program, arguing it would do little to alleviate student debt and would only increase tuition costs. Biden vetoed the bill, and a decision on the case is expected soon.

3. Freedom of speech versus LGBT rights

A crucial Supreme Court case involves the clash between freedom of speech and LGBT rights. The case centers around a challenge to a public accommodations law in Colorado, where a website designer argues that being required to build wedding websites for same-sex couples violates her constitutional rights. The ruling in her favor could have broader implications for discrimination against LGBT customers.

4. Independent state legislatures and gerrymandering

The Supreme Court is also tasked with deciding a case from North Carolina regarding the state’s redistricting efforts. The question at hand is whether state legislatures should have sole authority over administering federal elections, particularly in relation to congressional maps. This case gained renewed attention after Republicans won control of the state Supreme Court, reversing a previous decision on gerrymandering.

These upcoming decisions have the potential to shape the political landscape and influence the country’s future. Stay tuned for the Supreme Court’s rulings, as they could have far-reaching consequences.