Good and Bad

The Supreme Court ended its 2015-16 term with two major rulings, one good, one bad.  

The Court ruled 5-3, with Justice Anthony Kennedy providing the fifth vote, that the Texas law setting impossible standards for abortion clinics is unconstitutional, as it places an undue burden on women's rights to make decisions about their own health.  This was a rare victory by women in the war against them, but anti-abortion activists - some of whom, admittedly, are women - are vowing to find a way to help Texas keep restrictions on the books.   

The Court also threw out former Virginia Republican governor Bob McDonnell's conviction on corruption and bribery charges on the grounds that any politician who receives the most innocuous gifts from constituents or supporters - like, say, a cocker spaniel - could be charged with corruption based on the government's standards.  The feds can try the former governor again, but McDonnell, who got stuff from allies that was a lot more expensive than a dog, is likely going to remain free . . . and possibly run for office in Virginia again to seek vindication.  Because that's what Republicans do.

Sadly, the abortion ruling won't rescue Wendy Davis's already dead political career in Texas, and so, having failed as the 2014 Democratic candidate for governor of that state, she will likely disappear and end up being forgotten.  Because that's what Democrats do.