It's an election year and recently, the U.S. Supreme Court has grappled with cases that illuminate the intricate balance between individual rights and public safety. Historically the court had given wide latitude to local or state public safety authorities. However, cases like Newsom v. South Bay Church and Tandem v. Newsom highlight a noticeable shift favoring individual freedoms over collective public order and safety concerns; this marks a significant evolution in the court's approach to constitutional principles. This year's presidential election may solidify the current mindset of the court or see it begin to shift back toward more historical norms.

Newsom v. South Bay Church gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, centering on California Gov. Gavin Newsom's restrictions on religious gatherings. The court's decision to grant injunctive relief to South Bay United Pentecostal Church signaled a departure from previous deference to state authority during crises.