How does the judicial branch fit into a democratic system according to some debates?

The judicial branch is designed to be an independent branch of government, which means it should function without the influence of partisan politics and reelection concerns. This independence is crucial in a democratic system, as it allows the courts to interpret and apply the law impartially, ensuring that justice is administered fairly and consistently.

Judges are typically appointed rather than elected, which helps to insulate them from the pressures of public opinion and the need to appease constituents, allowing for decisions based instead on the rule of law and constitutional principles, rather than political expedience. This independence helps maintain a system of checks and balances where the judiciary can evaluate the actions of the other branches (legislative and executive) against the constitution, maintaining individual rights and liberties.

In contrast, focusing primarily on partisan politics or advocating for popular election undermines the judiciary's role as an impartial arbiter of the law. Additionally, while the judicial branch holds significant power in interpreting laws, it does not possess the authority to enforce its rulings, distinguishing its role from that of the executive branch, which can impact the perception of it being the most powerful branch in government. Therefore, the importance of independence in the judiciary is a key principle in democratic governance.