FDR Court-Packing Plan 1937: Controversial Power — Reading Comprehension

In 1937, President Franklin D. Roosevelt introduced a plan that challenged the balance of power within the U.S. government. This proposal, known as the court-packing plan, aimed to add more justices to the Supreme Court. The event became one of the most debated examples of checks and balances in American history.

The background of the plan can be traced to the Great Depression and Roosevelt's New Deal programs. The Supreme Court had declared several New Deal laws unconstitutional, frustrating Roosevelt and his supporters. They believed the Court was blocking progress during a national crisis. Roosevelt argued that the justices were too old and out of touch. In his message to Congress, he stated, "A part of the duty of the Court is to keep the law up to date with the facts of life." This quote shows Roosevelt's belief that the Supreme Court should adapt to changing times.

However, critics saw the court-packing plan as a threat to the separation of powers. Many feared Roosevelt wanted to increase his own power by appointing new justices who would support his policies. Members of Congress—including some from Roosevelt’s own party—worried that this set a dangerous precedent. Increasing the number of justices for political reasons could lead future presidents to do the same, weakening the Court's independence.

Supporters of Roosevelt emphasized the urgent need for economic reform. They believed the Supreme Court was too conservative and was preventing government action needed to help Americans. They argued that the Constitution did not specify the number of Supreme Court justices, so Congress and the President had the right to decide. Opponents, however, countered that the plan would undermine the judicial branch and upset the balance between the branches of government.

The debate over the court-packing plan became a national controversy. Newspapers, politicians, and citizens expressed strong opinions on both sides. Some saw Roosevelt as a champion of the people, while others accused him of trying to gain too much power. The plan faced fierce opposition in Congress and was ultimately rejected.

Despite its failure, the court-packing plan had lasting effects. Soon after the controversy, the Supreme Court began to approve more New Deal laws, a shift sometimes known as "the switch in time that saved nine." Some historians believe the Court changed its approach to avoid further conflict with the President and Congress. The event reinforced the importance of separation of powers and the need for careful limits on presidential authority.

This episode reveals the complexity of American democracy. Roosevelt believed he was serving the greater good, while his critics feared he was threatening democracy itself. The court-packing plan remains a powerful example of how leaders must balance bold action with respect for constitutional principles.

Interesting Fact: The number of Supreme Court justices has stayed at nine since 1869, even though the Constitution does not set a specific number.

What year did FDR propose court-packing?

Which branch interprets laws?

Who was president during the plan?

Why did Roosevelt propose adding justices?

What did critics fear about the plan?

What happened after the plan failed?

The court-packing plan was accepted. True or False?

What is the meaning of 'reform'?