Vacancy Watch: Thursday, September 24, 2020

AFJ is committed to keeping you informed about our fight to keep Trump from stealing #OurCourt.

REAP WHAT YOU SOW: As he attempted to pay his “respects” to Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg at the Supreme Court, President Trump was vigorously booed.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS:  When asked in 2016 whether Obama should be able to appoint a Supreme Court justice in an election year, Amy Coney Barrett said it’s inappropriate when it would “dramatically flip the balance of power.”

SENATE DEMOCRATS CONTINUING THE FIGHT: Senate Democrats used their platforms at the Senate Judiciary Markup to highlight the cruelty of moving forward with a nominee right now — a nominee who we know will take healthcare away from millions and remove the protections for those with pre-existing conditions. This is the last thing we need when a pandemic is ravaging the country and leaving millions with a lifelong health condition.

And here are Democratic Leader Schumer’s floor remarks on Senate Republicans’ mad rush to defy precedent and confirm a Supreme Court Justice:

HOW TO BE BOLDLY INVOLVED: Here are some handy dandy do’s and dont’s outlining what nonprofits can do when weighing in on the Vacancy. Do:

• Talk about the importance of the Supreme Court and the lower courts in protecting people’s rights. Do talk about RBG’s legacy and her decisions. Do talk about the 5–4 rulings and how the balance on the Court could be tipped.
• Talk about any nominee’s record on the issues, with a particular focus on the potential impact on issues consistent with the organization’s mission and advocacy.
• Talk about the nominee’s experience (or lack thereof).

IN MEMORIAM:

Make sure to follow AFJ on Twitter @AFJustice and check back for regular updates on the fight for #OurCourt.