As the US Supreme Court opens its fall term, all eyes turn to a critical series of cases that could redefine the scope of presidential authority, civil liberties, and religious freedom in America — and once again, former President Donald Trump is at the heart of the legal storm.
A Presidency on Trial — Again
The highest court in the land will be asked to rule on whether Trump’s aggressive use of presidential powers — particularly his decision to unilaterally impose hundreds of billions of dollars in tariffs on imported goods — overstepped legal boundaries. Lower courts have already said he did.
But the Supreme Court, with its 6-3 conservative majority (including three Trump appointees), has historically leaned in his favor, backing major decisions such as mass federal employee firings, reassigning agency powers, and immigration crackdowns.
Legal experts are watching closely.
“The crucial question will be whether it serves as a check on President Trump or just a rubber stamp,” said Erwin Chemerinsky, dean of the University of California Berkeley Law School.
What’s at Stake
This term’s highlight is the tariffs case, set for full briefing and oral argument on November 5. Trump had invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, claiming the US faced a trade emergency, and bypassed Congress. If the Court rules against him, the federal government could be on the hook to refund hundreds of billions of dollars in tariffs.
“This is not just a case about trade. It’s a case about presidential power,” said Curtis Bradley, a law professor at the University of Chicago.
Other Major Issues on the Docket:
Voting Rights (October 15): A case challenging the creation of a second Black-majority district in Louisiana could weaken the Voting Rights Act’s protections against racial gerrymandering.
Transgender Athletes in Sports: Legal challenges to bans in Idaho and West Virginia may set a nationwide precedent on trans youth participation in girls’ sports.
Religious Freedom (November 10): Damon Landor, a Rastafarian inmate, is suing Louisiana officials after his dreadlocks were forcibly cut, claiming a violation of his religious rights. Rarely do cases find support across ideological lines, but this one does.
Presidential Powers (December–January): Upcoming cases will examine Trump’s authority to fire members of key federal agencies like the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Reserve Board.
Fast-Tracked Justice or Unchecked Power?
Critics are also raising concern over the court’s increasing use of the “shadow docket” — expedited decisions made without oral arguments or full transparency.
“You’ve seen the court go out of its way… to green-light Trump administration positions,” said Cecillia Wang of the ACLU.
Some call it the “legal equivalent of fast food.” It’s quick, convenient, but lacking in substance and scrutiny. And it’s tilted, according to observers, toward reinforcing Trump’s decisions — even when lower courts found them unconstitutional.
