FDR's "court-packing" plan refers to his proposal in 1937 to increase the number of Supreme Court justices in order to secure support for his New Deal programs. The plan aimed to add up to six new justices, which would have allowed FDR to appoint judges who would be sympathetic to his policies.
Related terms
New Deal era: The New Deal era refers to the period from 1933 to 1939 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt implemented a series of programs and reforms aimed at combating the Great Depression. These programs included economic relief, recovery, and reform measures.
Supreme Court: The Supreme Court is the highest judicial body in the United States, consisting of nine justices who have final authority on interpreting laws and determining their constitutionality.
Checks and balances: Checks and balances refers to the system in which each branch of government (executive, legislative, and judicial) has certain powers that allow them to limit or influence actions taken by other branches. It ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful.