Supreme Court
Supreme Court to issue decisions on affirmative action, student loans by the end of the month
Good evening from New York I'm Chris Hayes it is not often the case these days but today the Supreme Court issued a long anticipated Monumental ruling that actually bolsters America's Democratic strength now the case before the court today contained at its core an idea that was Central to the Donald Trump scheme to overturn the 2020 elections the question of whether State legislatures can do whatever they want in elections up to and including simply appointing electors to their preferred candidate even when the citizens of their state vote the other way Trump's lawyers pushed the idea that Republican legislators in all kinds of States could simply ignore the will of the people in states that voted for Joe Biden and opt instead to send their own fake electors Trump electors to Congress it was fake electors in seven swing States Arizona Georgia Michigan Pennsylvania New Mexico and Nevada that in coordination with the Trump campaign sought to overthrow the election results Trump and his lawyer John Eastman along with others actively lobbied for and pushed this idea across multiple states trying in fact to get state legislatures to abandon their Core Democratic Duty and choose instead a path to essentially Crown Trump King here's the former speaker the Arizona House Republican conservative Rusty Bowers describing a 2020 call he got from Trump coup lawyer John Eastman and what did uh Dr Eastman want you to do um that we would in fact vote take a vote to overthrow or I shouldn't say overthrow that we would decertify the electors and that that because we had plenary authority to do so I said what would you have me do and he said just do it and let the court sort it out plenary Authority Absolute Total Authority the state legislators have total Authority over who wins an election we now have new reporting from The Washington Post that special counsel Jack Smith has taken a keen interest in the fake electors plot focusing specifically on potential fraud New York Times recently reported that one of the Trump campaign's key players in the scheme may actually be cooperating with Federal prosecutors and tomorrow Republican Georgia Secretary of State Brad raffensberger who Trump infamously called and told to find roughly 11 000 votes to overturn the Georgia results we'll meet with Federal prosecutors for as far as we know the first time on the special counsel's team in Atlanta we're gonna have more on the special counsel's investigation and the rapid developments coming up but again at the core of Trump's attempted coup and there's a bunch of things going on but at its core as articulated by John Eastman as he told Rusty Bowers is this bizarre to my mind facially ludicrous Fringe idea that conservatives ran with after their scheme failed to return Trump to the White House it's called the independent state legislature Theory although calling it a theory gives it a little too much credit and it would give State legislatures plenerally virtually unchecked power over Federal elections it was an idea infamously pushed by coup memo author John Eastman and his allies in Congress basically says state legislatures are the ultimate Arbiters of how elections are run in a state no matter what state law or state officials or crucially state courts say all we are demanding of Vice President Pence is this afternoon at one o'clock he let the legislatures of the state look into this so we get to the bottom of it and the American people know whether we have control of the direction of our government or not [Applause] this is bigger than president trump it is the very essence of our Republican form of government and it has to be done and anybody that is not willing to stand up to do it does not deserve to be in the office it is that simple that was the speech at the ellipse right before an angry mob went to the Capitol and bashed a bunch of cops brains in the Insurrection on January 6 failed in its goal to subvert democracy it failed to keep Donald Trump in office for a second term but in many ways the spirit of the coup of Donald Trump's multi-plong plan to overturn the election results continued and continues I mean we've seen in state after State like Arizona Georgia and Texas Republicans stripping power from State elections officials and candidates vowing to abolish bipartisan election Commissions in States like Wisconsin so this time it wasn't a violent mob but politicians locally elected officials at the state level trying to carry out a version of Eastman's Vision right to take power back from any official that has it delegated and give it all to the state legislatures so that they can run elections entirely not coincidentally those are also the places where Republicans have a lot of control and they've been doing it right in front of all of us I mean we were covering it back in May of 2021 in Arizona Republican state legislators stripped Secretary of State Katie Hobbs a Democrat of her ability to defend election lawsuits and it gave the power to who well exclusively to the attorney general a republican we are watching essentially a slow-motion Insurrection being carried out by Republicans in suits and ties in States all across the country they are putting the pieces in place to do in the next elections what the mob failed to do on January 6th and that slow motion Insurrection this idea from the right wing that the power of self-governance does not sit in the hands of the people the idea that the power and oversight of Elections belongs to basically Republican self gerrymandered majorities in the state level that idea that core idea is the subject of today's Monumental Supreme Court ruling the cases out of the state of North Carolina it's called Moore V Harper and in it North Carolina Republicans argued that this independent state legislature Theory gave them virtually unchecked power over elections the lawmaker's argument hinges on a political concept called the independent state legislature Theory based on the Constitution's election Clause saying the time place and manner of holding elections for senators and representatives shall be prescribed in each state by the legislature thereof so if the court lands on the side of North Carolina House speaker Tim Moore and his Republican colleagues Fredrickson explains it could mean State legislatures can act independently and governors and state courts would have no ability to check laws related to federal election today in the 6th Street ruling the Supreme Court rejected that extreme extreme and dangerous legal Theory not to say one completely unfounded in the text of the Constitution the case centers are an extremely aggressive partisan North Carolina congressional map John bye Republican in this Republican state legislature very gerrymandered using 2020 census data and it's a map that would give Republicans up to 10 seats in the House in early 2022 the North Carolina Supreme Court threw out that gerrymandered map and rejected Republicans arguments that state courts had no role to play in drawing Congressional Maps and then conservatives tried to go over the state Court's head challenge the ruling on the cart and went to the Supreme Court to argue that the constitution gives them and only them us in the state legislature the only and total power over how we draw Congressional Maps state courts don't matter well today the conservative Supreme Court that Donald Trump is responsible for shaping plainly rejected this radical and dare I say it kooky notion Chief Justice John Roberts authored the six to three opinion with both Trump appointed justices Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett siding with the Liberals Justice Clarence Thomas samuelito Neil Gorsuch dissented in his opinion for the majority chief justice wrote that quote legislatures the framers recognized are the mere creatures of the state constitutions and cannot be greater than their creators meaning the state government as a whole functions to oversee elections if there's a state constitution that's interpreted by state courts they get a say State legislatures aren't some like special magical power that overrules everything in the state that's ludicrous this is the second pro-democracy ruling from this very right-wing Court this term alone remember a few weeks ago they also upheld crucially section two of the Voting Rights Act and struck down a flagrantly biased Alabama Congressional map and I can't read the minds of the justices particularly Roberts and Kavanaugh who are the majority of both opinions but I have to think the sustained Focus amongst the press and civil society and politicians on the very real indeed existential threats the American experiment as posed by John Eastman Donald Trump and his movement the focus on that has shaped the Court's thinking and thank goodness for that thank you
About the Creator
Myanmar Junta Holds Second Phase of Election Widely Decried as a ‘Sham Exercise’
If you’ve been following Myanmar’s political turmoil, you probably heard the news: the military junta just held the second phase of its general election, and once again, critics are calling it a “sham exercise.” From the United Nations to human rights organizations, almost everyone outside the junta is dismissing this vote as a carefully orchestrated performance rather than a genuine democratic process. Let’s take a closer look at what happened, why it’s being condemned, and what this means for Myanmar’s future. A Military-Run Election in a Nation at War On 11 January 2026, voters in certain parts of Myanmar lined up at polling stations to cast their ballots in the second phase of the election. This phase covered roughly 100 townships across 12 states and regions, part of a three-phase plan that began in December 2025 and will conclude in late January. Sounds orderly enough—but here’s the catch: large areas of Myanmar are still controlled by armed opposition groups or trapped in active conflict zones. In many townships, voting didn’t even happen because it was too dangerous. For millions of citizens, the idea of participating in this election isn’t about choice—it’s about survival. So, while the junta presents this as a return to political normalcy, the reality is much messier. This vote is happening amid ongoing civil war, instability, and widespread human suffering. Who’s on the Ballot? And Who Isn’t One of the biggest issues with this election is who is allowed to run. Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy (NLD)—the party that won a landslide in the 2020 election—is banned. Suu Kyi herself remains detained on politically motivated charges. Many smaller opposition parties have also been barred from participating. Rebel groups and youth movements have refused to take part, calling the vote illegitimate. This has left the military-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) as the clear front-runner. In the first phase of voting in December, the USDP already secured nearly 90 of 102 contested seats, which is a strong indicator that the outcome of the overall election is practically predetermined. In short, this is less an election and more a political tool for the junta to cement power. The Junta’s Playbook For the military, these elections serve multiple purposes: Legitimacy: By holding elections, the junta hopes to claim that it has public support. Control: With opposition parties banned, the military ensures it dominates Parliament. International Image: They want the world to see a functioning democratic process—even if it’s staged. But the global community isn’t buying it. The United Nations, human rights organizations, and most Western governments have condemned the elections as neither free nor fair. Key issues include: Widespread political repression Absence of meaningful opposition Election laws that stifle dissent Unsafe conditions for voters UN Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews even warned that the elections “cannot and should not be recognized” internationally. Voices from the Ground: Fear, Frustration, and Exclusion For everyday citizens, voting is complicated. Many are intimidated or fear retribution if they don’t comply. Others live in conflict zones or have been displaced, making voting physically impossible. Ethnic groups and youth activists are particularly vocal about rejecting the elections. For them, the vote is a tool to marginalize minority communities and entrench military rule. Meanwhile, ordinary voters express mixed feelings—some participate out of hope for peace, others because they feel they have no choice. The reality? The election process is fragmented, forced, and disconnected from the lives of most Burmese citizens. International Reactions: Mostly Negative Around the world, reaction to Myanmar’s elections has been overwhelmingly critical. The UN, Western governments, and human rights organizations argue that the polls are designed to prop up an authoritarian regime, not reflect the will of the people. Civil society groups in Asia have also condemned the election, urging countries not to recognize the results. The junta’s international supporters, however—countries like China and Russia—may continue diplomatic engagement, making it harder to isolate the regime completely. The key takeaway? While the junta may claim legitimacy, global acceptance is far from guaranteed. Looking Ahead: What Happens Next? The final phase of voting is scheduled for 25 January 2026, and it’s expected to follow the same patterns: military dominance, restricted opposition, and contested legitimacy. If the junta consolidates power through this election, it will likely form a government that appears “elected” on paper but remains authoritarian in practice. Yet the ongoing civil war, international criticism, and domestic opposition suggest that Myanmar’s road to stability is still far away. For observers inside and outside the country, these elections are less about democracy and more about power. The military hopes to create a façade of legitimacy, but the reality on the ground tells a very different story: one of fear, division, and a population yearning for genuine representation.This blog version is more readable, flows naturally, and keeps the key facts intact, while meeting Vocal Media’s style of a narrative, accessible, and conversational article. If you want, I can also add a sidebar timeline showing all three phases of Myanmar’s 2025–26 elections to make it extra engaging for readers. It would fit perfectly for a blog format. Do you want me to do that? Conclusion Myanmar’s second-phase election may look like a step toward democracy on paper, but in reality, it’s a highly controlled, military-managed process with limited participation and credibility. With opposition voices silenced, ongoing conflict, and millions of citizens excluded, the so-called vote is widely regarded as a sham exercise. For the people of Myanmar, the future remains uncertain. While the junta may claim victory, the country’s deep political, social, and ethnic fractures mean that true democracy and stability are still a long way off. This election is a reminder that sometimes, the act of voting alone doesn’t equal democracy—especially when freedom, fairness, and choice are nowhere to be found.
By Muhammad Hassan7 days ago in Earth
Inflation Remained at 2.7% in December: High Prices Continue to Weigh on Many Americans
As Americans rang in the new year, many were relieved to see that inflation in December held steady at 2.7%, according to the latest reports. On the surface, this might seem like good news — a signal that runaway price growth is slowing. But for countless households across the country, the reality is more complicated: high prices continue to strain budgets, affecting everything from groceries to gas, rent, and beyond. The Numbers Behind the Headlines December’s 2.7% inflation rate, measured year-over-year, shows no significant change from November. This is a continuation of the trend economists have watched closely throughout 2025: after a period of intense price spikes, inflation appears to be moderating but remaining stubbornly above pre-pandemic norms. Key areas contributing to this steady inflation include: Food prices, particularly meat, dairy, and fresh produce, which have remained elevated due to supply chain challenges and global agricultural pressures. Housing costs, including rents and home prices, which continue to rise in many urban and suburban markets. Energy prices, especially gasoline and home heating, which fluctuate seasonally but have not dropped enough to ease household pressure. While 2.7% may seem manageable compared to the double-digit spikes of 2021–2022, it still outpaces wage growth for millions of Americans, meaning that in real terms, many are experiencing reduced purchasing power. How Inflation Affects Everyday Americans For many families, the impact of steady inflation is tangible. Consider this: a household spending $500 a month on groceries in 2025 might now be paying over $535 for the same items. Gasoline, which has seen seasonal swings, can quickly add dozens of dollars to monthly commuting costs. Rent, historically the largest expense for most households, has grown faster than wages in many cities. A steady 2.7% inflation rate means renters face incremental increases in living costs every month, often outpacing salary adjustments. Even seemingly small price increases ripple across budgets. Families may delay purchases, cut discretionary spending, or tap savings, which in turn affects broader consumer demand — a key driver of economic growth. The Role of the Federal Reserve and Economic Policy Inflation is not just about prices at the grocery store — it’s also shaped by monetary policy, interest rates, and government action. Throughout 2025, the Federal Reserve maintained a cautious approach, keeping interest rates relatively high to control inflation without triggering a recession. The Fed’s actions aim to balance: Slowing price growth to protect consumers’ purchasing power Avoiding a sharp economic downturn that could result from overly aggressive rate hikes Despite these efforts, economists warn that inflation’s persistence at 2.7% suggests structural pressures in the economy. Global supply chain disruptions, rising energy costs, and ongoing demand for goods and services continue to exert upward pressure on prices, making it harder for policy alone to bring relief. Inflation and Wage Growth: A Delicate Balance One of the most concerning aspects of steady inflation is its relationship with wages. For workers whose salaries haven’t kept pace with rising costs, inflation effectively reduces real income. Some sectors, like technology and healthcare, have seen modest wage gains, but many service industries — retail, hospitality, and small businesses — continue to struggle. Employees in these fields often find that even small price increases can significantly affect their quality of life, from grocery shopping to transportation and childcare expenses. What This Means for the Economy Steady inflation at 2.7% has several implications for the broader economy: Consumer Spending: When households feel the pinch, discretionary spending declines, which can slow economic growth. Investment Decisions: Businesses facing higher input costs may delay expansion or hiring, affecting job markets. Housing Market Dynamics: Rising rent and home prices continue to challenge affordability, influencing both buyers and renters. Financial Planning: Americans are increasingly turning to budgeting strategies, high-yield savings, or side income to offset higher costs. Economists stress that while inflation at this level is not catastrophic, it remains a long-term concern, especially if wages fail to keep up with price growth. Strategies for Coping with Persistent Inflation For households navigating these pressures, there are several approaches: Budget adjustments: Tracking expenses and prioritizing essential costs can help manage monthly finances. Smart shopping: Using discounts, bulk purchasing, and price comparison can reduce grocery and household costs. Energy efficiency: Lowering utility bills through energy-saving practices mitigates rising energy prices. Financial literacy: Investments, savings, and debt management become even more crucial in times of persistent inflation. While these steps cannot eliminate inflation’s impact, they provide tangible ways for Americans to protect their finances. Looking Ahead Economists predict that inflation in 2026 may continue to hover around 2–3%, barring unexpected shocks such as global conflicts, energy crises, or supply chain disruptions. While not extreme, this range continues to influence household budgets, corporate planning, and government policy decisions. For many Americans, the lesson is clear: even modest inflation can weigh heavily on day-to-day life. Staying informed, adjusting financial habits, and understanding the economic landscape remain essential for navigating a world where prices are higher than before. Steady inflation at 2.7% is a reminder that economic stability is fragile. While the numbers suggest moderation, the lived experience of millions of Americans shows that high prices are far from over, influencing decisions from grocery shopping to career planning. As the new year unfolds, households, businesses, and policymakers alike must grapple with the realities of an economy where every percentage point matters.
By Muhammad Hassan5 days ago in Earth
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.