The United States Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away on Friday, September 18, 2020, at the age of 87. Her death comes just weeks before the presidential election, leaving a massive political void and stirring up discussions about her life’s work.
Justice Ginsburg was an iconic figure in American legal history. She was a champion of women’s rights and fought tirelessly against gender discrimination. She was also the second woman to serve on the Supreme Court, appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1993, after Sandra Day O’Connor.
Throughout her tenure on the bench, Justice Ginsburg was an influential voice on some of the most important cases that came before the court. Among her most notable opinions was the majority decision in United States v. Virginia (1996), in which she ruled that the Virginia Military Institute’s exclusion of women was unconstitutional. Her steadfast defense of gender equality earned her the nickname “The Notorious RBG.”
Justice Ginsburg was also known for her strong dissents, which often went viral on social media, making her a household name. Her dissenting opinions in the Voting Rights Act case of 2013, where she sharply criticized the majority opinion and the conservative-led coalition, echoed across the country, becoming an inspirational rallying cry for those who oppose voter disenfranchisement.
In recent years, Justice Ginsburg had become a cultural icon, inspiring films, books, and documentaries that chronicled her life and work. Her grit, determination, and resilience had made her a symbol of hope for many, especially women.
As a stalwart defender of progressive values, her passing raises significant implications for the Supreme Court, American politics, and the future of the country. With the Supreme Court now divided evenly, four progressives, and four conservatives, President Trump’s nomination of a successor could tip the balance and shape the court’s trajectory for decades.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has already indicated that he will push for a confirmation vote, despite his previous stance in 2016 against Obama’s nominee, arguing that the president in the last year of his term should not nominate a successor. Democrats are calling for a delay in Supreme Court appointments, citing the same argument.
With just weeks left before the presidential election, the controversy surrounding Justice Ginsburg’s replacement will undoubtedly become a crucial issue in the presidential campaign, with both Republicans and Democrats seeking to mobilize their base on the issue.
In conclusion, the passing of Justice Ginsburg marks the end of an era in American jurisprudence. Her passing has left a void, not only on the bench but also in the hearts of those who admired her tenacity, brilliance, and compassion. Her legacy will undoubtedly live on as a beacon of hope for those who fight for equality and justice. But for now, the country must face an uncertain future, with the Supreme Court’s future hanging in the balance.
