Egypt Daily News – On Monday, President Joe Biden proposed significant reforms to the U.S. Supreme Court, including the establishment of a binding ethical code for justices and calls for a constitutional amendment aimed at ensuring no president is above the law with respect to criminal conduct while in office.
This initiative comes on the heels of a Supreme Court ruling that granted former President Donald Trump immunity for actions taken during his presidency.
Biden’s proposed “No One Is Above the Law Amendment” seeks to clarify that former presidents can face prosecution for crimes committed during their terms. He emphasized the need for accountability and expressed concern over recent Supreme Court decisions that he believes have undermined civil rights and widened presidential immunity.
In his statement, Biden highlighted how recent ethical controversies involving Supreme Court justices have raised public doubts about the court’s impartiality and fairness, stating that the power of the presidency is not absolute and should not shield individuals from legal responsibility.
Former President Trump responded to Biden’s announcement by describing it as an attack from “extremist left-wing Democrats,” accusing them of trying to manipulate the judicial system and interfere in presidential elections. He characterized the efforts as an unconstitutional assault on the integrity of the Supreme Court.
In addition to the calls for an amendment concerning presidential immunity, Biden suggested implementing set terms for Supreme Court justices, proposing an 18-year tenure with an appointment every two years.
He argued that this change would help regulate judicial appointments and ensure a balanced court that is less influenced by political motivations.
Furthermore, Biden’s plan includes enforcing a code of conduct for justices that would require transparency regarding gifts received and stricter guidelines on political activity, particularly following controversies involving justices such as Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito.
Biden’s proposals are part of a broader critique of Supreme Court practices and ethics, reflecting growing concerns among some lawmakers and the public about the court’s role in protecting rights and its alleged lack of accountability.
