What does 'strict scrutiny' require for classifications based on race?

What does 'strict scrutiny' require for classifications based on race?

• A. A compelling government interest and narrow tailoring; the law must be necessary to achieve that interest.
• B. A rational basis and legitimate governmental objective.
• C. A medium scrutiny test balancing rights.
• D. A mere plausible connection to an interest.

Answer: (B)

For race-based classifications, courts apply strict scrutiny—the most demanding level of review. The government must show a compelling interest that justifies the use of race, and the means chosen must be narrowly tailored to achieve that interest using the least restrictive option. In practice, this means the policy must be essential to achieving the objective, and there must be no less burdensome way to reach the same goal. This high standard reflects the strong protection against government actions that discriminate on the basis of race.

To contrast, a rational-basis review only requires a reasonable relation to a legitimate government objective, which is far less demanding and not typically used for racial classifications. The other described tests—an intermediate or “medium” scrutiny, or a mere plausible connection—do not fit how race-based classifications are evaluated.