Senators pushing for televised court arguments

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Senators are once again pushing the Supreme Court to televise its courtroom proceedings, especially since justices will have an election-year argument over the constitutionality of President Barack Obama's signature health care overhaul. A Senate Judiciary subcommittee debated Tuesday whether Congress should or -- even could -- force the Supreme Court, a co-equal branch of government, to allow cameras to broadcast live during arguments. The high court does not allow live television or audio broadcasts. Transcripts and audio recordings are released after the nine justices hear lawyers argue cases. Former Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania says he has been trying to get the high court televised for 25 years. He testified that putting arguments on TV would help people understand what the justices do. Published: Thu, Dec 8, 2011