striker42
Well-known member
Since states make laws governing elections (within a framework set forth in the constitution) isn't it a form of judicial activism for the four justices voting to review this case not to defer to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court in this case?
They aren't deciding the case on its merits in determining whether or not to issue a stay. The analysis is different. To support a stay you have to show:
1- There's a "reasonable probability" that four Justices will agree to grant cert
2- There's a "fair prospect" that a majority of the SCOTUS will agree the lower court's decision was wrong
3- Irreparable harm will result from denying the stay
4- In a close case the justice weighs the relative harms to the parties and the interests of the public
What's interesting here is that, unless I'm wrong and I'll admit the internal workings of SCOTUS stays isn't something I'm an expert on, Alito could have issued the stay alone. Justices are each assigned federal circuits. Requests coming from their circuits are directed to them. The justice can then either issue the order themselves or refer the case to the full court in which case five votes are required. If the Justice issues the stay themselves the losing party can request the case be referred to the full court but such a request is rarely granted.
My guess is the justices generally agree not to decide big issues like a stay in this case alone. So Alito referred to the full court. The most likely element not met is the "Fair Prospect" of success.