Affirmative action is constitutional, says Supreme Court

A surprising win from the Supreme Court this morning in Fisher v. University of Texas at Austin, or Fisher II. The court held that “The race-conscious admissions program in use at the time of petitioner’s application is lawful under the Equal Protection Clause.” Affirmative Action lives at least a little longer. 

Affirmative action program used by University of Texas system is constitutional, #SCOTUS rules: https://t.co/YzJUawmZRp

— Jill Filipovic (@JillFilipovic) June 23, 2016

The ruling was decided 4-3. Kagan recused herself, as she was involved with the case in her previous role as Solicitor General. Justice Kennedy authored the majority opinion, with Justices Breyer, Sotomayor, Ginsburg joining him. Justice Alito wrote the dissent which he read from the bench this morning. He was joined by Justices Thomas and Roberts. 

We will continue updating this post as more information becomes available. Discuss below.