SCOTUStoday for Thursday, January 22

This report provides updates on recent activities and discussions related to the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS), including pending cases, recent rulings, and ongoing debates about legal matters pertinent to the current term.

• Ongoing Cases: The Supreme Court is handling various significant cases including:

• Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump (Tariffs)

• Trump v. Barbara (Birthright Citizenship)

• Trump v. Slaughter (Independent Agencies)

• Louisiana v. Callais (Voting Rights Act)

• West Virginia v. B. P. J. (Transgender Athletes)

• Recent Arguments and Decisions:

• On January 21, the court heard arguments in Trump v. Cook, regarding the president’s attempt to remove Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve Board. Initial indications suggest skepticism from the justices about Trump's authority to unilaterally fire a Fed official.

• The court is currently on a winter recess but will resume arguments on February 23.

• Legal Controversies:

• California Republicans have requested the Supreme Court prevent the state from using a newly drawn congressional map, citing allegations of unconstitutional racial gerrymandering.

• In another notable case, Texas and Louisiana defended laws requiring Ten Commandments displays in public schools, debating issues of religious coercion and historical acknowledgment.

• Impeachment Discussions:

• House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed support for potential impeachment of federal judges who have ruled against Trump, specifically calling out Judge James Boasberg and Judge Deborah Boardman for their controversial rulings.

• Advocacy Group Actions:

• The Native American Guardian’s Association plans to challenge a rule banning the use of Native names by public schools in New York, which they argue violates the 14th Amendment.

• Public Opinion and Reactions:

• Coverage of Trump v. Cook highlighted the justices' doubts about the administration's position, suggesting a potential setback for Trump. Articles from various news outlets have focused on the implications of this case for institutional independence.

• Court Engagement:

• Access to SCOTUS arguments has become more dynamic, with people sharing experiences about attending hearings, revealing differing engagement levels among justices.

The Supreme Court is navigating several pivotal cases amid a backdrop of political and legal controversy. With the winter recess underway, upcoming sessions are anticipated to address critical legal questions impacting federal and state governance, as well as individual rights. Reporting from these sessions will continue to inform how the Court approaches these complicated issues as the term progresses.

https://www.scotusblog.com/2026/01/scotustoday-for-thursday-january-22/