Blog Post #2 - The Supreme Court

 The Power of the Supreme Court

I don't think a lot of people realize how much power the Supreme Court carries, being that it is the head of the judicial branch of government. I knew the Supreme Court was powerful, but I had no idea that it checked the actions of both the executive AND legislative branches of government. The Supreme Court of the United States is only made up of nine justices and has ultimate jurisdiction over all laws. Every year, the justices receive roughly 7,000 petitions from individuals fighting for a change. Accepted cases and written arguments are sent to be under consideration by justices once a week. The Supreme Court serves to protect citizens from state power under the United States constitution. 

Key Take-away

The most important take-away about the Supreme Court is that, according to the video, they are the most powerful judicial body on Earth. The greatest national questions are argued with their power rested on public faith. The Supreme Court draws the boundaries of government power. The Supreme Court will provide equal protection of law to all citizens. I find it absolutely fascinating that the Constitution is guiding people to “solve problems” that have been occurring 200 years later after the document was created. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg stated in the video that “We the people” meant something different 200 years ago than it did today.” “We the people" has grown to prevent discrimination in today’s society. 

Changing the way we view the Supreme Court

    

People often forget that the members of the Supreme Court are people. They are here to ensure equal justice under the law for the people. However, the Supreme Court can never avoid controversy. It is there to stop acts that are deemed unconstitutional in favor of the people. John Marshall himself said, “It is a constitution we are expounding.” It is crucial to remember that the Supreme Court is here for our protection as citizens. They constantly face the challenge of upholding the law by abiding what is considered to be “Constitutional.” 

Information quoted from Supreme Court Part One and Part Two.