WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court is embarking on a new term with pressing cases that could reshape the landscape of LGBTQ rights and challenge the grip of executive power held by former President Donald Trump. The justices are set to hear arguments surrounding nearly half of U.S. states' bans on conversion therapy aimed at changing sexual orientation or gender identity, which could significantly impact LGBTQ representation and rights across the country.
One of the less publicized cases on the docket involves a Texas murder trial where a defendant’s access to legal counsel during breaks is questioned, highlighting the delicate balance of rights even amidst serious criminal proceedings.
Among the more prominent issues this term will focus on are Trump’s claims of enhanced presidential powers, especially concerning controversial policies such as tariffs imposed during his presidency and the quest to redefine birthright citizenship. Two lower courts recently pointed out that Trump did not possess the legal grounding to implement these tariffs unilaterally under emergency powers, a significant assertion of checks and balances.
As the court evaluates these vital cases, the implications could reverberate through the political and social landscape, testing the bounds of presidential authority in America today. Cases centered around the rights of citizens and the empowerment of legislative checks are essential themes leading into the fall sessions.
