The United States Supreme Court will be hearing cases telephonically. This is in response to the coronavirus. (Let’s not get stuck on the fact that they are doing this by phone rather than by some form of video conference. Progress is progress.) Along with the change to telephonic hearings comes greater access for the press and public since the Court also will live stream the proceedings. This is a very good thing. The Atlantic wrote an interesting piece on this very topic, positing that the Court should keep with live-streamed, telephonic hearings even after this crisis subsides. I agree (except that I would prefer to see the Court evolve quickly to video). This is one area where we should not return to the old normal. I hope people take advantage of this opportunity and listen to some of the arguments. I know I will.
There are 13 cases slated for argument, including cases concerning the Electoral College, employment discrimination issues and the Affordable Care Act, among others. These are interesting and important issues and this is an incredible opportunity to listen to our democracy and our judicial system in action. For those who are curious, click here to read about the cases in May that will be heard by phone and live streamed and then...tune in!
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