Which standard requires government actions to be narrowly tailored to serve a compelling government interest when race-based distinctions are involved?

• A. Rational basis review
• B. Strict scrutiny
• C. Intermediate scrutiny
• D. Heightened scrutiny

Answer: (B)

Race-based distinctions trigger strict scrutiny. This is the most demanding level of judicial review: the government must show a truly compelling interest and that the classification is narrowly tailored to achieve that interest using the least restrictive means. In other words, the goal must be of very high importance, and the measure must be specifically designed to accomplish it without unnecessary broad classifications. Because race is a sensitive, suspect classification, policies relying on it have to meet this exacting standard to be upheld. The other standards are less protective—rational basis review gives courts wide leeway to uphold policies with only a plausible connection to a legitimate interest, and intermediate or heightened scrutiny applies to classifications like gender, not race.