Episode

Supreme Court Only Applies Made-Up Rule When It Helps Republicans

Podcast

Defending Democracy with Marc Elias

Published

May 21, 2026

Duration seconds

1879

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https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/democracydocket/episodes/Supreme-Court-Only-Applies-Made-Up-Rule-When-It-Helps-Republicans-e3jllrf

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https://traffic.megaphone.fm/APO3759152584.mp3

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Summary

The Purcell principle is a legal concept in U.S. election law that dictates federal courts should not alter state voting rules, district maps, or election procedures too close to an election. That is, unless you’re a Republican state. Marc Elias breaks down the contradictory nature of the Supreme Court when it comes to using Purcell, and what this means for the redistricting fight ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.