Conservative Justices Join Draft Opinion with No Edits
Justices on the Supreme Court sent their draft opinions to their colleagues for review and possible negotiation. In a surprising turn of events, Justice Neil Gorsuch had no edits to the draft opinion, which was then reviewed by the other justices.
Cascade of Conservative Justices Join Draft Opinion
The next day, a cascade of conservative justices, starting with Justice Clarence Thomas, joined the draft opinion without making any changes. Justice Amy Coney Barrett followed suit, and a few days later, Justice Brett Kavanaugh also signed on.
Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Decision Overturns Precedent
The Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision in 2022 marked a significant shift in abortion laws. This decision overturned nearly 50 years of precedent that was based on the 1973 Supreme Court decision on abortion, Roe v. Wade. The demise of Roe v. Wade meant that national abortion protections were no longer constitutionally guaranteed through a judicial decision. Instead, the responsibility of deciding on abortion laws returned to the states and Congress.
Supreme Court Denies Request for Preliminary Injunction
On Thursday, the Supreme Court made a decision regarding a ban on high-powered weapons. The Court denied a request from the National Association for Gun Rights for a preliminary injunction. The ban, signed by Democratic Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker in January, includes penalties for individuals who possess, sell, manufacture, import, or purchase any assault weapon or .50 caliber rifle. It also includes penalties for those who possess, sell, manufacture, import, or purchase any assault weapon attachment or .50 caliber cartridge.
Conclusion
In a surprising move, conservative justices joined a draft opinion without making any edits. This decision has significant implications for the future of abortion laws in the United States. Additionally, the Supreme Court’s denial of a request for a preliminary injunction allows a ban on high-powered weapons to remain in place.