How will the addition of Elena Kagan sway the vote in the US Supreme Court?

Answer 1

Justice Elena Kagan, who succeeded Justice John Paul Stevens on the US Supreme Court in August 2010, is unlikely to change the Court's voting patterns. The current Court seats four staunch conservatives and one moderate-conserve, as well as four progressive justices. Kagan's appointment is an instance of a progressive replacing a progressive, which only raises the question of how much influence her opinions may exert over Justice Anthony Kennedy, who is often considered the swing vote on the Court.

Kagan's long-term impact will depend on her ability to form alliances, build consensus and lead the progressive bloc, a role Justice Stevens performed brilliantly for several decades.

Answer 2

The addition of Elena Kagan to the US Supreme Court is likely to sway the vote towards a more liberal perspective. Kagan was nominated by President Obama and has generally been aligned with the liberal wing of the Court. Her presence on the bench could potentially shift the balance of power in cases involving issues such as abortion rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and civil liberties.