What to look forward to in politics for 2013

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Gun control legislation proposalsA fresh Obama cabinetBaby steps toward 2016Fiscal cliff falloutCritical Supreme Court decisionsContinued Republican soul-searchingGubernatorial and mayoral electionsIncreased concern over Iran's nuclear programA renewed battle over immigration

In 2012, the leading case before the Supreme Court was the constitutionality of President Obama's healthcare reforms, and in 2013, the Court's slate so far includes such divisive issues as same-sex marriage and affirmative action. Like in the healthcare case, no matter which side the Court rules in favor of, a sizable political constituency will be up in arms.

The Court will also be making decisions on such issues as whether genes can be patented and Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act requiring states with a record of voter discrimination to receive federal consent before changing voting laws.

Critical Supreme Court decisions

( Karen Bleier / AFP/Getty Images / March 31, 2012 )

In 2012, the leading case before the Supreme Court was the constitutionality of President Obama's healthcare reforms, and in 2013, the Court's slate so far includes such divisive issues as same-sex marriage and affirmative action. Like in the healthcare case, no matter which side the Court rules in favor of, a sizable political constituency will be up in arms. The Court will also be making decisions on such issues as whether genes can be patented and Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act requiring states with a record of voter discrimination to receive federal consent before changing voting laws.

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