Would you consider this Supreme Court an "activist" Court? [View all]

They gave us Citizens United, and today, they voted against the environmentalists on the coal-powered plants. But, they have also voted for Obamacare and same-sex marriage. They also voted to give citizens the right to do redistricting, rather than hand it to the state legislatures. They have had decisions that both sides have applauded and derided.

In my opinion, they are very political. They make their decisions based on what might be popular for the Republicans in the next election, or to get Republicans off the hook on some issues, such as Obamacare and same-sex marriage. They knew that the Republican Party had no back-up for Obamacare if it was declared unconstitutional. They also knew that same-sex marriage was gaining in the polls and the Republicans could end up taking a very unpopular position. In the manner that they ruled, it is still good for the Republican base and keeps their Party intact for the next election.

Basically, they have ruled with the Democrats on social issues and with the Republicans on economic or corporate issues. I think they are more political than "activist".