A Rallying Cry Against Lockstepping
When state supreme courts peg their constitutions to federal interpretations, they erode the rule of law, undermine federalism, and limit rights protection.
Cases, Courts, and Constitutions Across the 50 States
How Elections Are Certified in Battleground States
State laws require officials to certify results, and safeguards are in place should someone fail to fulfill that obligation.
Pennsylvania Faces a Moment of Truth for Life Without Parole
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court is considering whether requiring life in prison without the possibility of parole for so-called felony murder is unconstitutional.
Former Ohio Chief Justice on Democracy, Gerrymandering, and Ukraine
In an interview, retired Ohio Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor spoke about her push for citizen-led redistricting in Ohio and recent trips to Ukraine advising on fair courts.
How Years of Legislative Maneuvering Shaped this Year’s Judicial Elections
The outcomes in races in Ohio and North Carolina will be determined in part by legislatures that altered election rules to benefit their allies.
Commentary
Is a Life Sentence for 'Felony Murder' Unconstitutional?
The Pennsylvania high court heard oral arguments about whether the sentence violated the state constitution the same week that Colorado’s supreme court rejected similar claims.
States Can Protect Unhoused People When the U.S. Supreme Court Won’t
The U.S. high court’s ruling allowing anti-camping laws underscores the importance and potential of state constitutional protections.