NARAL Pro-Choice America Opposes President's Nomination of John Roberts to Serve as Chief Justice
(Washington, DC) – Nancy Keenan, president of NARAL Pro-Choice America, said President Bush's nomination of John Roberts to succeed William Rehnquist as the Chief Justice of the United States raises the stakes for the protection of fundamental freedoms, including the right to privacy.
"President Bush's nomination of John Roberts to serve as Chief Justice underscores the need for a more in-depth and deliberative examination of his record. The Chief Justice plays a critical role in setting the direction of the Supreme Court, and his or her decisions will have a profound impact on the freedoms and liberties that Americans cherish. "We opposed Roberts' nomination because of his record of opposition to fundamental freedoms, including a woman's right to choose. Roberts co-wrote a legal brief that said "Roe was wrongly decided and should be overruled" and dismissed a fundamental liberty as the "'so-called' right to privacy." As the Chief Justice, Roberts would have broad authority to shape the direction of the Court on these key issues. Roberts' nomination to this pivotal post only underscores the need for him to provide clear answers to questions on issues related to individual freedom during his hearings before the Senate. The Bush administration also must release documents related to Roberts’ tenure as the principal deputy solicitor general during the first Bush administration. Given the profound importance of the Chief Justice position, the American people have a right to all the information about Roberts' record and legal philosophy. "The passing of Chief Justice Rehnquist and the two vacancies on the Court come during a great crisis in our nation. The devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina must have the full attention of our leaders. Our nation's character and strength will be defined by our response to the tragedies unfolding in the aftermath of this natural disaster." Contact:
Ted Miller, 202.973.3032
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