Amy Coney Barrett’s confirmation means Republicans will have a 6-3 majority on the Supreme Court. Some facts about her past tell us what trouble this could spell for Black people.
A Racial Slur
Amy Coney Barrett wrote a legal opinion that the “n-word” doesn’t necessarily create “a hostile or abusive working environment!” A fired Black state employee said a former supervisor had used the slur, but Barrett said it wasn't enough to win his case.
Originalism
Barrett is an “originalist,” meaning she interprets the constitution as it was written at the time. That’s concerning, because at the time it was written, Black people were enslaved and women had no rights! This view raises questions about amendments.
A “Stolen” Seat
President Obama nominated a Black woman named Myra Selby to the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals. Republicans blocked it, and when President Trump won, Barrett “stole” her seat. Selby, the first woman and first Black American to serve on the Indiana Supreme Court was denied.
Avoiding Questions
Barrett has refused to state her opinion on important issues. These include climate change, voting rights, marriage equality, abortion, and the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). She even refused to comment on President Trump potentially rejecting election results!
An Unprecedented Situation
A Supreme Court nominee has never been rushed through right before an election like this. One of the most lasting legacies of the Trump Administration will be how it has stacked the courts. The Supreme Court now stands to have a super-majority for any and every Republican interest.