Four potential Supreme Court rulings today remain undecided.

Supreme Court Faces Critical Decisions with Far-Reaching Consequences

As the Supreme Court approaches its annual summer recess, there are still over 20 cases awaiting a verdict that could significantly impact the nation. Traditionally, the court saves its most momentous cases for the end of its term, often reshaping the political landscape. However, this year, four major cases remain undecided, with the potential to upend the country’s political trajectory and exert a significant influence over the 2024 elections. Anticipated decisions are set to be announced as early as Thursday morning.

Breakdown of Pending Cases

1. Affirmative action at U.S. colleges

One of the cases before the Supreme Court involves the question of affirmative action, which pertains to the use of race-based admissions policies by colleges to promote diversity on their campuses. However, conservatives have raised concerns that such policies violate the constitution. It is likely that conservative justices will vote against the practice, arguing that race should not be a factor in college admissions as it may disadvantage qualified students. This decision could overturn the court’s 1978 ruling that initially allowed universities to consider race as an application factor. Colleges across the nation have explored alternative methods to achieve diversity goals, but many argue that without affirmative action, it becomes challenging to maintain high enrollment rates among minority groups. A verdict in this case is expected by the end of the month and could have far-reaching implications for colleges nationwide.

2. Student loan cancellation

Another case under consideration involves President Joe Biden’s plan to provide up to $20,000 in student loan relief through his debt forgiveness program. Conservative groups have filed lawsuits, contending that Biden lacks the authority to unilaterally cancel student loan debt. Congress has also passed a bill seeking to block the program, asserting that it would do little to alleviate student debt and may even increase tuition costs. Biden vetoed this bill earlier in the month. Despite Biden’s initial announcement of the plan in August, legal challenges have hindered its implementation. A decision in this case is expected in late June or early July.

3. Freedom of speech versus LGBT rights

The Supreme Court is also grappling with a case that pits freedom of speech against LGBT rights, presenting a crucial dilemma. The case revolves around a challenge to a public accommodations law in Colorado, where website designer Lorie Smith argues that it violates her constitutional right to free speech by compelling her to create wedding websites for same-sex couples despite her personal objections. However, a ruling in Smith’s favor raises concerns that it could undermine previous decisions prohibiting discrimination against LGBT customers. While the justices appear inclined to side with Smith, it remains uncertain how they will limit the scope of their ruling to prevent broader discriminatory effects.

4. Independent state legislatures and the issue of gerrymandering

One more case before the Supreme Court originates from North Carolina’s recent redistricting efforts. The central question is whether state legislatures should have exclusive authority over administering federal elections, particularly concerning congressional maps. This challenge arises after state courts deemed the redrawn maps, implemented after the 2020 census, as an extreme case of gerrymandering favoring Republicans. However, the case was revived when Republicans gained control of the state Supreme Court in 2022, effectively overturning the previous decision.

These pending cases hold immense significance, and their outcomes will shape the future of various aspects of American society. Stay tuned for the Supreme Court’s forthcoming decisions.