In a landmark decision on Monday, the Supreme Court ruled that state judges hold the power to override state legislatures when determining the implementation of federal elections.
The decision dealt a blow to the “independent state legislature” theory that had sought unchecked power for state lawmakers in dictating federal election laws.
The 6-3 ruling in the case of Moore v. Harper involved a conflict over a state court’s power to regulate federal elections, especially regarding gerrymandered redistricting maps,” according to Fox News.
Politico reported the “independent state legislature” theory stipulates that “state courts lacked authority to question state legislatures on election laws for federal contests.” Politico added that “the ruling preserves the power of state courts to review election laws under state constitutions while emphasizing federal courts’ duty to exercise judicial review.”
Writing for the majority, Chief Justice John Roberts stated that the Elections Clause of the U.S. Constitution does not exempt state legislatures from state judicial review.
The Supreme Court’s decision upholds the authority of state courts to apply constitutional restraints while also cautioning against unconstitutional intrusion upon the role specifically assigned to state legislatures. This significant decision could have substantial implications for election security nationwide and raises further questions about the role of state courts in election cases.
The ruling serves as a stern warning against the misuse of lawsuits to circumvent election laws or manipulate electoral districts, a potential concern for those who are wary of undue legal interference in the democratic process.
Many view the ruling as a blow to Republican-led legislation and initiatives.
Despite the definitive opinion by the Supreme Court, some dissenting justices criticized the majority decision for its vagueness. Justice Kavanaugh, in particular, proposed a specific standard to determine when state court rulings exceeded their proper bounds.
Former President Barack Obama hailed the ruling.
The ruling confirms the duty of federal courts to review any state election law changes that may violate federal law or the U.S. Constitution, ensuring a system of checks and balances within the electoral process. It also signals the ongoing importance of judicial review in upholding democratic values and norms.
Although some see this as a setback, conservative legal circles are likely to continue exploring other avenues to establish greater control over the electoral process by state legislatures. As the nation heads into another critical election season, all eyes will remain on the courts and their influence over the rules of the electoral game.