Democrats are strategizing a significant power move that could alter the political landscape if they reclaim control post-election. Veteran strategist James Carville has revealed some bold ideas around this.
In a discussion on his podcast with Al Hunt, Carville laid out a direct agenda for the Democrats should they win the presidency and Congress. He suggested that on day one, they should elevate Puerto Rico and D.C. to statehood and increase the Supreme Court to 13 justices.
This strategy isn’t subtle. Granting statehood to Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico would immediately add new senators and House members, shifting power dynamics. Expanding the Supreme Court from nine to thirteen justices would enable a Democratic administration to reshape the judiciary significantly.
Furthermore, Carville recommended that Democrats keep this plan hidden during their campaigns. “Don’t run on it. Don’t talk about it. Just do it,” he stated, igniting concerns among conservatives who feel the true intentions are being revealed.
This initiative arises amid ongoing frustrations from Democrats regarding the Supreme Court’s current rulings, which they view as obstacles. Critics contend that the movement to expand the court is not about reform but securing a majority to push through policies that may encounter legal challenges.
Carville envisions a scenario where a Democratic president, elected in 2028, would announce a committee for Supreme Court reform, ultimately pushing for an expansion to 13 justices.
“F*ck it, eat our dust.”
James Carville and AI Hunt agree that if the Dems take Congress, they should immediately hold Trump “accountable” (read: impeach), make DC and Puerto Rico states, and pack the Supreme Court. pic.twitter.com/oF8vhdAIXK
— Libby Emmons (@libbyemmons) April 17, 2026
The left argues that the Supreme Court has gained excessive power, while the right perceives attempts to cultivate a court that will endorse progressive policies, potentially facilitating a shift toward one-party governance.
Other Democrats and activists are echoing Carville’s sentiments, advocating for not only state admissions but changes in election protocols and institutional constructs that impede legislative progress. Supporters label this as “democracy reform,” while detractors view it as a strategic overreach.
Some conservatives reference past academic discussions suggesting that leftward shifts could complicate Republican victories. In their perspective, court expansion is not peripheral; it is essential to their strategy.
Carville’s insistence on a quiet approach has only fueled Republican concerns about candidates portrayed as moderates who may pivot sharply upon securing power.
Overall, these comments illustrate the critical stakes as both parties prepare for the upcoming election cycle. For Democrats, it’s an opportunity to solidify transformative changes; for Republicans, it’s a stark warning about the battle extending beyond policy to the fundamental rules governing the system.
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