The federal judiciary

  The federal judiciary – particularly the U.S. Supreme Court – is a uniquely powerful judiciary institution. That is, the Supreme Court court of the United Sates, by being independent from other branches of government, having the power of “judicial review,” and featuring lifelong terms for those who comprise it, is significantly more powerful than the courts of virtually all other countries in the world. Life-long appointments certainly raise the stakes of each Supreme Court appointment – and the stakes are, indeed, very high, as we’ve all had occasion to witness recently as three new justices were appointed to the Supreme Court over the last 5 years (consider that those newly filled seats likely will not become vacant again for decades to come). For this reason and others, some have argued that there should be a constitutional amendment to institute fixed terms for Supreme Court justices with the eligibility of re-appointment. Others argue that there were good reasons (namely insulation from partisan politics) that the Federalists wanted lifelong terms for justices and that terms ought not to be instituted. What do you think? Defend or Oppose the following proposed amendment to the Constitution – Resolved: The President shall appoint, and the Senate shall confirm, federal judges who serve a term of ten years. Judges will be eligible for re-appointment.