The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday thrust itself into the midst of a political battle over immigration, as the Justices agreed to hear arguments on the constitutionality of President Obama's plan to allow 4-5 million people now living illegally in the United States, to gain a legal status.
Without comment, the Court agreed to hear a legal challenge from 26 states - spearheaded by Texas - that has put the President's plan on hold for almost a year.
Credit: Jamie Dupree
Credit: Jamie Dupree
"In deciding to hear this case, the Supreme Court recognizes the importance of the separation of powers," said Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in a statement.
"The Court should affirm what President Obama said himself on more than 20 occasions: that he cannot unilaterally rewrite congressional laws and circumvent the people’s representatives," Paxton added.
A date for arguments was not set today by the Court - but they would seem likely in either March or April.
That would set up a ruling by the end of June, right in the middle of the race for President.
"Democrats are confident that the Supreme Court will recognize the legality and necessity of the President’s executive actions for immigrant families," said House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi in a statement, as she argued the actions were "well within" the President's legal authority.
The impact of this case in the political arena was quickly apparent:
Credit: Jamie Dupree
Credit: Jamie Dupree
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