House Democrat Moves to Amend Constitution in Response to Supreme Court’s Immunity Ruling

By: Georgia | Published: Jul 04, 2024

In a bold move, Representative Joseph Morelle is sparking a revolution in Congress. 

He’s drafting a constitutional amendment aimed at overturning a recent Supreme Court decision. Why? To make sure no president is untouchable. “and ensure that no president is above the law.”

A Letter of Intent

It all started with a letter. Rep. Morelle, a key figure in the House, reached out to his colleagues with a clear message: join me in this fight. 

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Official portrait of Representative Joseph Morelle smiling, dressed in a suit with an American flag backdrop

Source: Wikimedia Commons

His plan? Initiate the grinding gears of the amendment process. Tough road ahead, but he’s set on making a change.

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Democracy on the Line

“This amendment will do what SCOTUS failed to do — prioritize our democracy,” declared Morelle. 

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Front view of the U.S. Supreme Court building under a clear blue sky, showing the classical facade and statues

Source: Wikimedia Commons

His words are a rallying cry for those fearing the implications of unchecked presidential powers. This isn’t just politics; it’s about protecting our core values.

Holding Leaders Accountable

In light of former President Trump’s actions, Morelle is adamant: accountability is non-negotiable. 

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Donald Trump speaking into a microphone at a podium during a campaign event, with a serious expression and wearing a suit

Source: Wikimedia Commons

He said, “I urge my colleagues to support my amendment and stand with me on the front line to protect our democracy.” The stakes? Nothing less than the integrity of our democratic system.

A Monumental Reaction

This isn’t just another day in Congress. The Supreme Court’s conservative lean has rocked Washington with a decision that’s set tongues wagging across the aisles.

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Donald Trump addressing a large crowd at an outdoor rally, with attendees wearing red caps and American flags in the background

Source: GOP/X

Even the court’s liberal justices are alarmed, signaling danger for democracy as Trump eyes the White House again.

What the Chief Justice Says

Chief Justice John Roberts has spoken, and his words carry weight. He claims broad immunity for presidents concerning their official duties. 

Close-up portrait of Chief Justice John Roberts with a neutral expression, wearing a dark suit and tie

Source: Wikimedia Commons

This ruling has left many wondering about the fate of ongoing legal battles against Trump, shaking the very foundations of justice accountability.

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Trump's Quick Win

Trump’s camp popped the champagne too soon. Celebrations kicked off as the ruling landed, with his legal team pausing his upcoming sentencing. 

Former President Donald Trump pointing and smiling at a campaign rally with supporters holding pink "Women for Trump" signs in the background

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Now, the sentencing has been pushed to fall, leaving the public in suspense about the legal tangles.

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Election Looms Over Trials

With the 2020 election saga still fresh, this Supreme Court decision throws a wrench into the plans.

Donald Trump speaking at an outdoor rally beside a lake, with a large crowd of supporters wearing red caps and American flags visible

Source: GOP/X

Federal cases against Trump might now linger unresolved till after November’s presidential race, leaving voters in a lurch as they head to the polls.

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The Long Road to Amendment

Changing the Constitution isn’t a walk in the park. It’s a marathon that could stretch years, with success far from guaranteed.

A close-up view of the original U.S. Constitution text focusing on the preamble, showing faded handwriting on parchment

Source: Wikimedia Commons

But Morelle and supporters believe it’s the best shot at affirming that even presidents must face the music.

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No Exceptions for Presidents

“This amendment will guarantee that no public officer of the United States — including the president — is able to evade the accountability that any other American would face for violating our laws,” Morelle emphasizes

U.S. Representative Joseph Morelle in a blue suit being interviewed by a news reporter with a microphone in a medical facility

Source: RepJoeMorelle/X

Morelle notes that it is a matter of fairness.

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Congressional Power Moves

Hot on Morelle’s heels, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is not staying silent. She’s aiming to impeach justices over what she sees as “an assault on American democracy.” 

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez passionately speaking into a microphone at an outdoor public event, with visible breath in the cold air

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Bold words as she prepares to battle what she calls “authoritarian capture.”

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What’s Next?

The amendment journey is long, needing two-thirds of Congress and three-fourths of the states to agree. 

Front view of the U.S. Capitol Building under a clear blue sky, showing the iconic dome and the east front plaza

Source: Wikimedia Commons

With the current divide, it’s an uphill battle. But history is in the making—will this be the 28th amendment? Only time will tell.

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