Two rulings from the Supreme Court Friday bring major victories for Conservatives and brings to an end a blockbuster session that will have consequences for years to come.
The Supreme Court ruling 6-3 to block President Joe Biden’s plan to cancel an estimated 430 Billion in student loan debt. Cody Hounanian with the Student Debt Crisis Center saying: “This relief was so needed and I know many people, like me, are worried about their financial wellness and stability moving forward.” The decision is a huge blow to the Biden Administration, which aimed to deliver up to $20,000 of relief to millions of struggling borrowers, but the White House confirms the President will keep trying.
In the same 6-3 split, the Supreme Court’s Conservative majority also ruled in favor of a Christian Web Designer refusing to create websites to celebrate same-sex weddings out of religious objections. The decision is rooted in Freedom of Speech protections, but critics say it will allow more businesses to discriminate against LGBTQ people. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser saying: “This sweeping opinion promises to destabilize the public market place. Enabling and encouraging all types of business, not just those that make websites, to have a first amendment right to refuse customers because of who they are.”
The blockbuster rulings follow a tumultuous term for the Roberts Court. It’s been under a harsh spotlight over ethics and transparency amid reports about Justice Clarence Thomas’ pattern of non-disclosures on financial reports.