# Strict Scrutiny **Strict scrutiny** is the most demanding standard of constitutional review. A law that classifies by race, national origin or alienage, or that burdens a fundamental right, is presumed unconstitutional. It survives only if the government shows it is narrowly tailored to a compelling interest. It sits atop the three tiers applied under the [[Equal Protection Clause]]. In redistricting, [[Shaw v. Reno]] applies it to districts drawn predominantly on the basis of race, and [[Louisiana v. Callais]] (2026) applied it to a district drawn to comply with the [[Voting Rights Act of 1965]].