> Why can't they expedite for special cases?

To a certain extent this exists, but given that SCOTUS has been stacked with GOPers…

> The shadow docket is a break from ordinary procedure. Such cases receive very limited briefings and are typically decided a week or less after an application is filed. The process generally results in short, unsigned rulings. In contrast, merits cases take months, include extensive briefing and public oral argument, and result in lengthy written opinions detailing the reasoning of the majority and of any concurring and dissenting justices.

* https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shadow_docket

It's not unusual that the "shadow docket" orders have limited briefings when the extent of the ruling/order is usually procedural, as opposed to ruling on the merits of the case.

It should be noted any justice can write a dissent in a "shadow docket" ruling. If a justice finds a ruling incorrect, nothing hides their criticism of it from the light.

This is not really due to political balance as much as wanting to respect the standard escalation process and maintain decorum. They would rather that lower judges give proper justified rulings rather than spit out binding decisions on a whim without oral arguments, unless there's really an emergency.