Jim Clyburn proposes expanding Supreme Court to thirteen members

Representative Jim Clyburn (D-SC) has proposed expanding the Supreme Court to thirteen members, a number he referred to as a “baker’s dozen.” Speaking on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Clyburn argued that such an expansion is necessary to ensure the Court follows constitutional underpinnings and to protect the rights established by the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments.

Clyburn suggested that without these changes, the country could face a regression toward legal interpretations similar to those of the Taney era. He expressed support for similar calls for court expansion made by other Democratic leaders.

Critics argue that proposals to expand the Court, implement term limits, or limit its jurisdiction are distractions that could further erode the institution's legitimacy. Some analysts suggest the current judicial direction is a result of political outcomes, noting that Republican presidents have filled nine vacancies compared to four filled by Democratic presidents over recent election cycles.