The Founding Era: Supreme Court Of The United States (2)

The Supreme Court Of The United States (SCOTUS) uses the power of Judicial Review to interpret the Constitution and create precedents for all court systems in the United States. Serving Justices have no term limits and often serve decades after their Presidential appointment. SCOTUS is the highest ruling court of our judicial system, leaving them with the power of certiorari. 

In reflection of The Supreme Court's history, I was surprised to learn about how public this court is. All rulings are sent out to the press immediately after a decision, and many cases are presented and argued publicly. In comparison to the Supreme Court, I learned that many legislative decisions are made privately, with little record of discussion or compromise. This information was brought to attention as a justice responded to a claim that SCOTUS was private and "secretive", pointing out that their court was more public than our legislative system passing our federal laws and regulations. 

My biggest take-away from this reflection is how independent the court is. While each justice has their own opinion, they take their job of interpreting the Constitution seriously and leave "party politics" out of their debates. Another big take-away was Justice Ruth Bater-Ginsburg's point on the Constitution and amendments. Justice Ginsburg mentions how our founding fathers left out the rights for women, people of color, etc. and how our amendments, and SCOTUS rulings must take these parties into account to keep freedom for the people. 

These videos have helped further my understanding of the inner-workings of the Supreme Court, and have encouraged me to keep myself updated and educated with SCOTUS cases and rulings. Additionally, I am more educated on the history of SCOTUS and its previous justices. This knowledge broadens my understanding of our Government and how each branch works with the other.