Washington, D.C., October 7(HS): The US Supreme Court began its new term on Monday amid a packed docket that promises to have far-reaching consequences on the scope of President Donald Trump’s executive authority. Since returning to office eight months ago, Trump has vigorously expanded presidential power, implementing sweeping policy changes and seeking greater control over federal agencies and state National Guard units amidst recurring legal challenges.

A focal legal battle involves Trump’s controversial attempts to deploy National Guard units in cities without state consent, provoking federal court orders blocking the move. The Supreme Court may soon weigh in through its so-called “shadow docket,” either limiting or endorsing the president’s unilateral military actions domestically—a decision that has drawn criticism for its opaque process.

The Court is also poised to scrutinize Trump’s authority to remove members of independent agencies and to fire influential officials such as Federal Reserve Board governor Lisa Cook, potentially reshaping presidential influence over economic policy.

Reviews of Trump’s unilateral tariffs, federal budget reductions, immigration crackdowns, and possible attempts to rescind birthright citizenship are similarly on the horizon.Amid these high-stakes cases, legal scholars note increasing expectations that the Court will provide detailed reasoning rather than brief orders, particularly on issues expanding executive power.

Additionally, cultural and political controversies—ranging from state bans on conversion therapy and transgender athlete participation to voting rights challenges—are also set for consideration.The conservative-majority Court has recently issued landmark rulings altering abortion rights, regulatory authority, and affirmative action, deeply polarizing public opinion along partisan lines. This term, with a 6-3 conservative tilt, may see further historic decisions that redefine the balance of power in the United States.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar