Senate Republicans Choose Coney Barrett Over People with Low Incomes

The following is a statement from Olivia Golden, executive director for the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP). 

October 27, 2020, Washington, DC—Yesterday, as Senate Republicans rushed to fill a seat on the Supreme Court, countless Americans struggled to pay their bills and take care of their families while thousands continue to die and are sickened. Despite a devastating pandemic that has claimed the lives of over 225,000 Americans and a brutal recession that has left millions out of work, Senate Republicans chose to prioritize a rushed process that will likely have devastating consequences, particularly for people of color and people with low incomes. The Senate Republicans’ choice to prioritize the rapid approval of Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court, rather than extend economic relief, only prolongs the pain and harm being experienced by millions across the country.    

Judge Amy Coney Barrett’s appointment to the Supreme Court could further endanger the health and well-being of people with low incomes, immigrants, and people of color nationwide. While on the 7th circuit, Judge Coney Barrett ruled in favor of the Trump Administration’s deeply harmful and chilling public charge rule. She has publicly opposed the Supreme Court’s 2012 ruling in NFIB v. Sebelius, which upheld the Affordable Care Act (ACA). And she will take a seat on the court two weeks before the Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in California v Texas, a case that could determine the future of the ACA, which has been an essential support for millions during this public health emergency. Should the Court choose to strike down the Affordable Care Act, more than 20 million people will lose access to affordable health care in the middle of a pandemic.  

Senate Republicans’ priorities during a national crisis and appointment of Judge Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court is harming people today and jeopardizing their well-being in the future.