How does the Fourteenth Amendment’s equal protection clause apply to state laws?

The Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits states from denying to any person within their jurisdiction "the equal protection of the laws." This clause serves as a fundamental constitutional guarantee that individuals or classes of individuals must be treated the same as others in like circumstances.1234

Historically, the Supreme Court has applied this clause to protect persons against arbitrary or repressive state actions. While initially interpreted narrowly, the clause became a powerful tool for challenging state laws in the 20th century, particularly regarding racial segregation, voting rights, and gender discrimination.512

When state laws involve classifications that appear to segregate individuals—such as in racial gerrymandering—the Supreme Court may subject those laws to "strict scrutiny," the highest standard of judicial review. Under this standard, the state must demonstrate that the law serves a compelling interest and is narrowly tailored to achieve that end. However, the Court has also held that some issues, such as partisan gerrymandering, may present political questions beyond the reach of federal courts under the equal protection clause.65