January 9, 2026

In this week's edition of the How Appealing Weekly Roundup, curated by Howard Bashman and hosted on Above the Law, we delve into several pivotal legal battles and discussions that are shaping the nation's judicial environment. The roundup provides a snapshot of the most pressing appellate litigation issues. Here is a closer look at some of the highlights:
California's Transgender Student Privacy Law Faces Supreme Court Challenge
A significant legal challenge is underway as a Catholic legal group petitions the Supreme Court to block a California law designed to protect the privacy of transgender students. The group argues that the law infringes on parents' religious rights by preventing schools from disclosing a student's transgender status without their consent. Politico's Josh Gerstein offers an in-depth analysis of the implications this case could have on privacy and religious freedom.
Trump’s Tariff Troubles: Exploring Legal Remedies
As former President Donald Trump faces legal scrutiny over the imposition of controversial tariffs, Isabel Gottlieb of Bloomberg News breaks down his potential options. The focus is on what could happen if the Supreme Court deems his actions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act as illegal. This report sheds light on the complexities of presidential powers in economic regulation.
Supreme Court's Impact on Gun Laws
The Supreme Court's recent decisions have left the landscape of gun legislation more convoluted than ever. UCLA Law Professor Adam Winkler provides insight into the ongoing legal turmoil in an essay for The Los Angeles Times, discussing the intricate history and potential future of gun control laws in America.
Unexpected Developments in Supreme Court's Ideological Battles
In a surprising turn of events, the Supreme Court diverted from what many anticipated to be a straightforward ideological conflict. Robyn Nicole Sanders, writing for Slate, explores this deviation in a recent jurisprudence essay, highlighting a case that could redefine the boundaries of religious freedom and the First Amendment.
Voting Rights Act and the 2026 Midterm Elections
With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, the GOP's hopes for a favorable Supreme Court ruling on redistricting are diminishing. Politico’s Samuel Benson and Andrew Howard report on how impending election deadlines might preserve the Democratic control, impacting the political landscape significantly.
Presidential Power and the Role of Grand Narratives
Renowned legal scholar Cass Sunstein discusses the expansion of presidential authority in his latest Substack post. His analysis not only reflects on the current state of executive power but also on how grand narratives shape public and judicial understanding of presidential roles.
Each of these stories highlights crucial developments in appellate litigation and the broader legal context, offering a window into the dynamic and often contentious world of law. For more detailed analysis and additional stories, visit Howard Bashman’s How Appealing blog on Above the Law.