On December 24, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) has been in the news for several decisive actions during this holiday season. As reported, the Court recently left intact a decision by a federal judge in Chicago which bars the Trump administration from deploying the National Guard in Illinois, despite the administration’s appeal for relief (read more).
Another developing issue is the unresolved matter of Louisiana’s congressional redistricting. The state awaits the Supreme Court’s decision on Louisiana v. Callais, concerning race-based redistricting, a case that holds significant implications for the upcoming 2026 elections, as highlighted by The Times-Picayune. The delay has already prompted state leaders to contemplate last-minute changes to the congressional map.
In related discussions, President Donald Trump has recently praised the economic growth attributed to his tariff policy in a social media announcement. He simultaneously called for prayers for the Supreme Court, referencing the newly released economic data from the third quarter, which shows a 4.3% growth in the economy, driven by increased exports and consumer spending, as noted by The Hill.
Meanwhile, reports have surfaced over the growing concern among federal judges about the harassment and threats they face, especially those who have ruled against Trump or defended the judiciary’s independence. This tense climate was elaborated on by NBC News, citing the difficult experiences shared by these judges against the backdrop of relentless criticism.
Furthermore, Justice Samuel Alito has granted the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette more time to contest a ruling from the 3rd Circuit regarding labor negotiations, a development detailed in the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
The spotlight also remains on Kristen Waggoner of the Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF). Recently profiled by The Wall Street Journal, Waggoner’s organization continues to influence key legal debates surrounding the rights of conservative Christians, with several important cases up for argument in the current term, including those concerning women’s sports and conversion therapy.
This week, SCOTUS will be sending abridged editions of its updates and take a short break until early January, when regular operations will resume (SCOTUSblog).