All articles tagged with #constitutional questions
Virginia became the latest state to join the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, bringing the alliance to 222 electors and paving the way for awarding all electors to the nationwide popular-vote winner once 270 electors are on board; supporters say it would ensure every vote counts equally and reflect public preference, while legal and constitutional questions remain and momentum hinges on more states joining.
The Supreme Court's decision to allow Donald Trump's name on the ballot for the 2024 election left key constitutional questions unanswered, including the process for disqualifying a candidate for insurrection under the 14th Amendment and other eligibility requirements. The opinion did not address how to deal with "insurrectionist" candidates for state office, potentially leading to future disputes. The decision also raised concerns about a potential constitutional crisis if Trump wins the election and faces disqualification attempts, while leaving ambiguity on the role of Congress in enforcing Section 3 of the 14th Amendment.
The Tennessee House passed House Bill 2716, which would prevent expelled lawmakers from being reappointed to office, despite facing constitutional concerns. The bill's sponsor, Rep. Johnny Garrett, argued that the measure is constitutional, while opponents and legal counsel raised objections. The bill comes after two Democratic lawmakers were expelled in 2023 and subsequently reappointed by local councils. The House rejected amendments by Democrats and the bill now moves forward, with questions raised about its constitutionality and potential need for a constitutional amendment.
The Supreme Court expressed skepticism towards a conservative-backed attempt to block Congress from passing a tax on wealth. The case involves a one-time "repatriation" tax on big companies' overseas earnings, but some hope for a broader ruling that would prevent the implementation of a wealth tax. While some justices questioned the distinctions between the repatriation tax and other long-standing taxes, others expressed concerns about the potential consequences of a broad ruling. The court seemed to lean towards a narrow ruling in favor of the government, with a decision expected by late June.