Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) revealed plans to file articles of impeachment against several Supreme Court justices following a controversial ruling on presidential immunity.
According to Breitbart News, Ocasio-Cortez's announcement comes in response to a Supreme Court decision on presidential immunity, potentially impacting charges against former President Donald Trump.
The decision, handed down on Monday, was a six-to-three ruling in favor of limited presidential immunity from criminal prosecution for actions taken while in office. The case will now be remanded, possibly leading to the dismissal of some or all charges against Trump related to the January 6 Capitol riot.
The only Supreme Court justice ever impeached in U.S. history was Associate Justice Samuel Chase in 1805, later acquitted by the Senate. This historical context underscores the rarity and gravity of Ocasio-Cortez's move.
In her announcement, Ocasio-Cortez posted on X, “The Supreme Court has become consumed by a corruption crisis beyond its control.” She further stated, “Today’s ruling represents an assault on American democracy. It is up to Congress to defend our nation from this authoritarian capture. I intend on filing articles of impeachment upon our return.”
Chief Justice John Roberts, who wrote the opinion for the Court's majority, emphasized the constitutional framework designed by the Framers, which demands an energetic, independent Executive. He stated, “The President enjoys no immunity for his unofficial acts, and not everything the President does is official. The President is not above the law.”
The ruling has ignited a firestorm of political reactions. Former President Trump celebrated the decision, describing it as a “big win” for democracy, a sentiment he believes bolsters his reelection campaign.
Conversely, prominent Democrats have condemned the ruling. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) labeled it a “disgraceful decision by the MAGA SCOTUS,” while Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) asserted that the Court had gone “rogue.”
A senior Biden campaign official commented, “Today’s ruling doesn’t change the facts, so let’s be very clear about what happened on January 6: Donald Trump snapped after he lost the 2020 election and encouraged a mob to overthrow the results of a free and fair election.”
The Supreme Court's opinion discussed the broader implications of prosecuting a former President for official acts. Roberts noted, “This case poses a question of lasting significance: When may a former President be prosecuted for official acts taken during his Presidency?”
Roberts’ opinion highlighted that Congress cannot criminalize the President’s conduct in carrying out the responsibilities of the Executive Branch under the Constitution. This decision underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between the branches of government.
Ocasio-Cortez's impeachment effort reflects a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the legislative and judicial branches. The potential for impeachment underscores the intense partisan divide over the Supreme Court's role and decisions.
As Congress reconvenes, attention will focus on Ocasio-Cortez and her potential filing of impeachment articles, triggering significant debate across political lines. The Biden administration and its supporters are likely to oppose the ruling, seeing it as a threat to democratic norms. In contrast, Trump supporters may view it as vindication against politically motivated prosecutions. This move will mark a historic and contentious period in American politics, affecting the balance of power among government branches.
