Could a Case Currently Before the Supreme Court Result in a Wider Presidential Pardon Power?
No, a case currently before the Supreme Court is unlikely to result in an expansion of presidential pardon power. The Court will address only the specific legal issues presented in the case and is not expected to overturn longstanding precedents that limit the president’s authority to grant pardons. Historically, the U.S. Supreme Court has been cautious about broadening presidential powers, especially in matters as constitutionally sensitive as pardons.
The case in question does not directly challenge the scope of the president’s pardoning authority. The Court has previously affirmed that the president’s pardon power, while broad, is not unlimited. For example, the president cannot issue pardons for crimes that have not yet been committed. Additionally, the Court has held that the use of the pardon power is subject to certain judicial checks and cannot be used to obstruct justice or interfere with ongoing legal proceedings.
In conclusion, it is highly unlikely that the Supreme Court will issue a ruling that significantly expands presidential pardon powers.
