By Annabelle Harris, Chase the Race 2016 National News Team Reporter – Tulsa, OK
The recent passing of Justice Antonin Scalia has left a vacant seat in the Supreme Court. Many think the new President elected this November should be the one to appoint Scalia's replacement, while others argue that leaving the seat vacant that long could create issues.
If the task falls to the next President, he could not nominate and seat a Justice until he was in office. This would mean the Court would be down to eight Justices, opening up the possibility of a four to four deadlock. In deadlock situations, the Supreme Court's decision would revert back to the lower court's ruling. Upcoming cases such as Whole Women’s Health v. Cole (Abortion), Zubik vs. Burwell (Obamacare), and many other cases concerning the power of teachers unions’ and the freedom of speech would be in danger of a deadlock.
Many of the current Republican front-runners believe that the decision should fall upon the next President. Even with very important cases coming up, the chance of the Court hitting a deadlock is low. In my opinion the next President should seat the new Justice.
What's your opinion? Comment below and share your voice!
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