Barr and Sessions Propose Supreme Court Debate Questions for Harris, Trump

Former U.S. Attorneys General William Barr, Jeff Sessions, Michael Mukasey, and Edwin Meese have put forth two discussion points concerning the Supreme Court that they believe should be addressed during the upcoming debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. This debate is scheduled for September 10 on ABC News.

In a letter directed to ABC moderators and executives, the notable former officials urge that the candidates outline their views on the potential expansion of the Supreme Court and detail what factors they would consider when selecting a nominee for the Court in the event of a vacancy during their possible presidency.

The coordinated letter highlights a growing national conversation sparked by recent Supreme Court rulings, particularly the Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade. The signatories express concern that the candidates have yet to adequately address their views on such a significant issue as the Supreme Court structure and influence.

“As Americans prepare to vote for president, it would be helpful and appropriate for them to hear how former President Trump and Vice President Harris would seek to impact the Court,” the letter states, underscoring the importance of the debate in shaping voter perceptions.

ABC has not yet commented on the letter or the requested debate questions. The impending face-off in Philadelphia, set to be moderated by David Muir and Linsey Davis, promises to be a pivotal moment in the campaign trail.

Recently, tensions have surfaced between the two campaigns regarding the debate rules, creating uncertainty about the event’s feasibility. However, Trump confirmed on Tuesday that he has agreed to the established terms, signaling that the debate will proceed as planned.

The upcoming debate carries significant weight for both candidates as they approach a fiercely competitive election season. According to the latest polling averages from The Hill/Decision Desk HQ, Harris holds a slender lead of 4.3 percentage points over Trump, reflecting a shift from earlier months when Biden was trailing Trump. Maintaining this momentum will be critical for Harris as she prepares for her first major interview following her nomination.

As anticipation builds around the debate, speculation continues about the specific issues that will be brought up during the ABC broadcast. Barr and Shackelford have previously expressed apprehension over President Biden’s proposed reforms concerning the Supreme Court, such as introducing term limits and establishing a formal code of ethics.

Trump’s connection to Barr and Sessions is noteworthy, as Trump nominated Barr in 2018 after Sessions was dismissed post-midterm elections. Mukasey previously served during George W. Bush’s presidency, while Meese was part of the Reagan administration, showcasing a lineage of legal and political experience among the signatories.

The outcome of the debate could significantly influence voter sentiment as both candidates articulate their visions for not only their presidential campaigns but also the future direction of the Supreme Court amid various legal and societal challenges.

As the date approaches, both campaigns are likely to ramp up their messaging to sway potential voters, making this debate a key battleground in the quest for the presidency.

Source: The Hill