Full Breakdown
Gov. Josh Shapiro Joins Supreme Court Reform Push
7/7/2026, 6:22:05 AM
Shapiro Calls
During an appearance on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania said, “I think we need radical reform that’s actually going to ensure that the voices of the people are heard from, that the voices of the people are represented in the three branches of government. We don’t have that right now.” The comment places Shapiro among Democratic officials advocating changes to the Supreme Court’s composition.
Context
Calls to expand the nine-member Court—often called “court packing”—have resurfaced as Democrats respond to recent rulings they view as misaligned with public opinion. The column cites Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s claim that the Court is “illegitimate for rendering decisions against ‘widely held public opinion.’” It also notes the Framers’ design of the Court as a countermajoritarian check. The discussion coincides with the nation’s 250th anniversary, which the source says heightens debate over institutional reforms.
Official Statements & Responses
- Governor Shapiro called for “radical reform” to broaden democratic representation across the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
- Sen. Warren warned that the Court’s decisions diverge from widely held public opinion, questioning its legitimacy.
- Former Attorney General Eric Holder noted that a Democratic “trifecta” in 2028 could prompt strategic acquisition of power.
- Political strategist James Carville urged an immediate expansion of the Court to 13 justices if Democrats control the presidency and Congress.
- Harvard professor Michael Klarman cautioned that the Court could strike down sweeping reforms, suggesting pre-emptive expansion to protect them.
Criticism & Opposition
The column’s author labels Shapiro’s stance as a departure from moderate governance, describing it as “abandoning principle.” It points to the Supreme Court’s independence, citing recent rulings against the Trump administration—including a decision on birthright citizenship—as evidence of a check on executive power. The source also notes that “most voters still oppose court packing,” framing the proposals as out of step with public sentiment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Shapiro told MS NOW: “I think we need radical reform that’s actually going to ensure that the voices of the people are heard from, that the voices of the people are represented in the three branches of government.” — Josh Shapiro, Governor of Pennsylvania
- “If the Democrats win the presidency and both houses of Congress, I think on day one, they should expand the Supreme Court to 13. F— it. Eat our dust. Don’t run on it. Don’t talk about it. Just do it.” — James Carville, political strategist
- “[We’re] talking about the acquisition and the use of power if there is a Democratic trifecta in 2028.” — Eric Holder, former Attorney General
- “the Supreme Court could strike down everything I just described.” — Michael Klarman, Harvard professor
Outlook
The source suggests that discussions of court expansion may intensify if Democrats secure a unified government by 2028. It also implies that persistent public opposition could shape the political calculus surrounding any legislative effort to alter the Court’s composition.
