Journalist @baltimoresun writer artist runner #amwriting Chaplain PIO #partylikeajournalist

Journalist @baltimoresun writer artist runner #amwriting Chaplain PIO #partylikeajournalist
Journalist @baltimoresun writer artist runner #amwriting Md Troopers Assoc #20 & Westminster Md Fire Dept Chaplain PIO #partylikeajournalist
Showing posts with label Supreme Court of the US. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Supreme Court of the US. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 03, 2009

This week in The Tentacle




This week in The Tentacle

Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Sotomayor – Break Her and You Die
Kevin E. Dayhoff
At 10:13 A.M. on May 26, President Barack Obama introduced to a breathless nation, a fawning audience, and a mesmerized press, his selection to replace retiring U. S. Supreme Court Justice David Souter – Judge Sonia Sotomayor of the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit of New York.

Sunday Dinners
Michael Kurtianyk
Whatever happened to Sunday dinners? Have they gone the way of bowling and hula hoops? You know what I mean – the fixture of a Sunday dinner when, on a day of rest, you spend the day with family and culminate in a big dinner with all the fixings and desserts. Summers would be an outdoor barbecue and winters would be heartier meals like stew, or pot roast, or some such thing.

Telling Time
Tom McLaughlin
Kuching, Indonesia – “A watch beginning at US$10,000!” I exclaimed. “The time piece,” I was corrected, “is an heirloom to be passed down through the generations.”

Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Murder in a Church
Roy Meachum
A brand-new U.S. citizen emerges from the courtroom waving his legalizing papers exuberantly. He hits a passerby on the nose. The man knocks him down. The new citizen protests: I am an American and have the right to celebrate. The passerby replies: Your right ends where my nose begins.

A Common Sense Approach to Moderates
Farrell Keough
On a recent radio talk show, I was referred to as a moderate. While the comment was meant as a compliment, being a staunch conservative, I took umbrage toward the implication. This led to a conversation about the meaning of moderate and something that seemed timely for an article.

Monday, June 1, 2009
The Empathetic Activist
Richard B. Weldon Jr.
President Barack Obama has thrown down a political gauntlet with the selection of federal Appeals Court Judge Sonia Sotomayor to be the next United States Supreme Court justice.

Not about Judge Sonia Sotomayor
Steven R. Berryman
Today you will be happy to note that I did not fill this space with the abundant fodder falling out from the nomination of 2nd Circuit Judge Sonia Sotomayor for the upcoming vacancy on the United States Supreme Court.

Friday, May 29, 2009
Alderman Karen Lewis Young?
Roy Meachum
Keep it simple, stupid. The translation for K.I.S.S. has not been around all my life; it certainly applies when it comes to politics. All that most voters in the September Democratic primary in the City of Frederick will probably know, going into the booth: Karen Lewis Young is married to Ron Young.

Removing the Blindfold from Lady Justice
Joe Charlebois
There are many reasons why there will be serious opposition to Judge Sonia Sotomayor – President Obama's current pick to replace the retiring Supreme Court Justice David Souter. This pick has been made strictly for political expediency and is not being made in the best interest of the people of the United States.

Thursday, May 28, 2009
In Defense of The Justice-to-be
Tony Soltero
Tuesday I learned, as a captive audience to cable news, that some things are not as they seem. For example, Supreme Court nominees are viewed differently, depending on your party.

Of Old Texas Days
Patricia A. Kelly
I’ve just returned from a visit to my mom’s home, Texas. We went for the surprise birthday party she arranged for her brother, and for a small family reunion. She and I are so blessed that all three of her brothers, and her sister, are alive and well.

Old Foggies and The Elastic Social Media
Michael Kurtianyk
Over the holiday season, I asked my nephew (college freshman) why he never replied to my emails. His reply: “I don’t use emails. I text message and use Facebook.”

Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Thank you, Jeff
Roy Meachum
He brought the muffins. Jeff Holtzinger showed up for coffee Tuesday morning with a Dunkin' Donuts bag in hand. We sat down at the old farm table to drink our New Orleans' coffee and chicory. It was a standing invitation; he called Friday to say he would accept.

Obama’s flip-flops for combat boots
Kevin E. Dayhoff
When President Barack Obama took office, even the most politically unengaged citizen knew huge changes were afoot in the look and feel of the American presidency and our nation’s future. For those who voted according to a particular candidate’s national defense outlook, who knew that our new president would wear flip-flops for combat boots.

The Bride of Frankenstein’s Corsage
Tom McLaughlin
Gunung Gading National Park, Borneo Island – I could tell you a lie and say I hacked my way through the jungle to see the largest flower on the planet. I could write that I slept in a hammock fighting off vipers, leeches and hordes of mosquitoes just to witness the flower before it faded into a rumpled mass.

Tuesday, May 26, 2009
"That" Subject Again
Roy Meachum
Most readers know that I wrote a column for the Frederick News-Post for over 20 years. During that time the publisher and editor was George Delaplaine. Judge Edward Delaplaine was his uncle, an author and prolific reader of catholic tastes, but there was one subject that turned him off.

Why They Hate Us
Nick Diaz
Well, okay, not all the non-motorcycle people hate us – it just seems that way some of the time, and has for the 40 years of my experience. So, why is that?

Monday, May 25, 2009
The Art of Political Prevarication
Richard B. Weldon Jr.
Here's a hypothetical: A major politician holds a news conference on a very sensitive topic – the use of enhanced interrogation tactics to elicit information from enemy combatants and terrorists. In the course of the press event, a reporter asks this nationally known public figure a specific question about whether or not they were officially briefed on this subject while the tactics were actively being employed.

Toward a Workable Hair Care System
Steven R. Berryman
Government economists, in conjunction with the Obama Administration, have now decided we must tackle the struggling hair care industry immediately, even if this requires full nationalization of assets, as it is “too big to fail.”

20090603 SDOSM This week in The Tentacle




Search results on Sotomayor on White House web site June 3 2009

FEATURED RESULTS FOR "Sotomayor" June 3, 2009 on White House web site

http://www.whitehouse.gov/search/?keywords=Sotomayor&F_All=Y

See also:

Pres Obama’s remarks nominating Sotomayor to SCOTUS

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2009/05/remarks-by-obama-nominating-sotomayor.html


Judge Sonia Sotomayor with mother Celina Sotomayor

Judge Sonia Sotomayor with mother Celina Sotomayor Judge Sonia Sotomayor with mother Celina Sotomayor

Judge Sonia Sotomayor in 2009

Judge Sonia Sotomayor in 2009 Judge Sonia Sotomayor in 2009

Judge Sotomayor with her niece

Judge Sotomayor with her niece Judge Sotomayor with niece Kylie Sotomayor in upstate New York

MORE RESULTS (51 ITEMS )

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The President’s Nominee: Judge Sonia Sotomayor

The President’s Nominee: Judge Sonia SotomayorThe President nominates Judge Sonia Sotomayor for the Supreme Court, read his remarks and get to know her. Updated with video. Viewing this video requires Adobe Flash Player 8 or higher. Download the free player. download .mp4 (198.5 MB) | read the transcript There is no question that nominating a Supreme Court Justice is amongst a president’s most important...


Weekly Address: The Experience of Judge Sotomayor

Weekly Address: The Experience of Judge SotomayorThe President discusses the breadth and depth of experience held by his nominee for the Supreme Court.The President discusses the breadth and depth of experience held by his nominee for the Supreme Court. In the course of a life that began in a housing project in the South Bronx and brought her to the pinnacle of her profession, Judge Sonia Sotomayor accumulated more experience on...


Judge Sotomayor, In Practice

Judge Sotomayor, In PracticeAs Judge Sonia Sotomayor has been visiting Capitol Hill, her former co-prosecutor discusses her role in her first murder case as a demonstration of her invaluable real world experience. Today, Judge Sonia Sotomayor has been visiting Capitol Hill to meet with both Republican and Democratic senators. Her first stop was the office of Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, who...


Education

Player 8 or higher. Download the free player. FROM THE PRESS OFFICE MON, JUNE 1, 6:47 PM EST Presidential Proclamation Great Outdoors Month WED, MAY 27, 3:37 PM EST What They're Saying About Judge Sotomayor WED, MAY 27, 8:32 AM EST Remarks by the President at a fundraiser for Senator Harry Reid, 5/26/2009 READ ALL OTHER RELATED ITEMS You are Here: Home > Issues You are exiting the White House Web Server Thank you for visiting our site. You will now...


Family

on Credit Card Tactics: “Enough is Enough” At a town hall in New Mexico, the President emphasizes his commitment to signing the Credit Card Bill of Rights into law by Memorial Day. Includes video. READ THIS POST READ ALL RELATED BLOG POSTS FROM THE PRESS OFFICE WED, MAY 27, 3:37 PM EST What They're Saying About Judge Sotomayor TUE, MAY 26, 11:40 AM EST Remarks by the President in Nominating Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United...


Immigration

President Obama met with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, get an exclusive photo and look over the readout. READ THIS POST READ ALL RELATED BLOG POSTS FROM THE PRESS OFFICE TUE, MAY 26, 11:40 AM EST Remarks by the President in Nominating Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court FRI, MAY 1, 3:29 PM EST Remarks by the President at Naturalization Ceremony for Active Duty Service Members FRI, MAY 1, 1:04 PM EST Background On Naturalization Ceremony...


Urban Policy

is tough, but the recovery act is fighting back. READ THIS POST READ ALL RELATED BLOG POSTS FROM THE PRESS OFFICE WED, MAY 27, 3:37 PM EST What They're Saying About Judge Sotomayor TUE, MAY 26, 11:40 AM EST Remarks by the President in Nominating Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court FRI, MAY 15, 3:58 PM EST Vice President Biden Announces Nearly 100 Million In Recovery Act Funds To Clean Up Dangerous Lead In...


Women

11, 10:46 AM EST Women in the White House Jenny Yeager, Special Assistant to the Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement READ THIS POST READ ALL RELATED BLOG POSTS Viewing this video requires Adobe Flash Player 8 or higher. Download the free player. FROM THE PRESS OFFICE WED, MAY 27, 5:03 PM EST Briefing by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 5/27/2009 WED, MAY 27, 3:37 PM EST What They're Saying About Judge Sotomayor TUE, MAY 26, 11:01 AM...


Ethics

Executive Order on Ethics READ THIS POST WED, APRIL 29, 12:10 PM EST "Words and Deeds" Norm Eisen, special counsel to the president for ethics and government reform, drops by to talk about progress on ethics and transparency since the President was sworn in. READ THIS POST READ ALL RELATED BLOG POSTS FROM THE PRESS OFFICE MON, JUNE 1, 8:59 AM EST Letter of Support to Senators from Sotomayor Law Clerks FRI, JANUARY 30, 12:00 AM EST Nondisplacement of Qualified...


Background on Judge Sonia Sotomayor

The Press Office Background on Judge Sonia SotomayorSonia Sotomayor has served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit since October 1998. She has been hailed as “one of the ablest federal judges currently sitting” for her thoughtful opinions, and as “a role model of aspiration, discipline, commitment, intellectual prowess and integrity” for her ascent to the federal bench from an upbringing in a...


Official Statements and Remarks

on a Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty, which will end production of fissile materials for use in atomic bombs. 5/29/2009 Statement from the New York State Law Enforcement Council on the Sotomayor Nomination The New York State Law Enforcement Council congratulates President Obama on his nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court. 5/26/2009 Statement by the Press Secretary on the Republic of Korea's...


The Briefing Room

photos on the White House photostream. Have a look. READ THIS POST TUE, JUNE 2, 3:23 PM EST Judge Sotomayor, In Practice As Judge Sonia Sotomayor has been visiting Capitol Hill, her former co-prosecutor discusses her role in her first murder case as a demonstration of her invaluable real world experience. READ THIS POST TUE, JUNE 2, 3:02 PM EST Transparency at the FDA HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius discusses the new Food and Drug...


Remarks by the President in Nominating Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court

The Press Office Remarks by the President in Nominating Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary _________________________________________________________ For Immediate Release


Civil Rights

prison terms in changing behavior. President Obama will also improve ex-offender employment and job retention strategies, substance abuse treatment, and mental health counseling so ex-offenders can successfully re-join society. RELATED BLOG POSTS FRI, MAY 29, 11:59 PM EST Weekly Address: The Experience of Judge Sotomayor The President discusses the breadth and depth of experience held by his nominee for the Supreme Court. READ THIS POST TUE, MAY 26, 12:15 PM EST...


Briefing by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 5-26-09

picked Judge Sotomayor largely based on three criteria, the first being experience -- and when I say that, experience as a prosecutor, experience as a litigator, and then experience as both a circuit and an appellate court judge. In fact, we've pointed out that she will bring more experience on the federal branch then anybody that's been appointed to the Supreme Court in a hundred years. I think, secondly, obviously the President believes strongly...


Remarks by the President at a fundraiser for Senator Harry Reid, 5/26/2009

bipartisan legislation to help homeowners and crack down on predatory lenders who seek to take advantage of them. (Applause.) On Friday, I signed two laws, one that will protect consumers from unfair rate hikes and abusive fees levied by credit card companies -- (applause) -- another that will eliminate waste in our defense budget and save taxpayers billions of dollars. And today I nominated a brilliant individual to serve on the United States Supreme Court: Judge Sonia


ADVISORY: Conference Call with Legal Experts to Discuss the Nomination of Judge Sotomayor

The Press Office ADVISORY: Conference Call with Legal Experts to Discuss the Nomination of Judge SotomayorToday at 2:30PM EDT the White House will hold a conference call with legal experts to discuss the nomination of Judge Sotomayor. THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary _______________________________________________________ FOR IMMEDIATE...


What They're Saying About Judge Sotomayor

The Press Office What They're Saying About Judge SotomayorFellow Second Circuit Judge Guido Calabresi on Sotomayor: “She’s Always a Very Forceful and Powerful Judge. She Has, Not on a Insignificant Number of Occasions, Caused Me to Change My Mind.” THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary __________________________________________________ FOR IMMEDIATE...


Briefing by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 5/27/2009

Briefing Room 1:24 P.M. EDT MR. GIBBS: Good afternoon. My condolences to all of you that weren’t allowed to go to Las Vegas and Los Angeles, including myself. Let me get organized here. Mr. Feller. Q Thanks, Robert. Two questions on the Supreme Court, please. As expected, the debate to try to define Judge Sotomayor is underway from interested parties from the left and from the right. The President


Briefing by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 5-28-09

among several -- many people in the abortion rights community about Judge Sotomayor, and I'm wondering if you can respond to that and talk about -- I know you said there was no litmus test and no demand of an answer when the President interviewed her, but did he talk with her at all about her views on the constitutional right to privacy, sort of talk around the issue at all with her? MR. GIBBS: Well, obviously -- and we...


Briefing by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 5-29-09

symbol, and a reminder of what was going on at that time. Let me do a couple of other quick things, and then we'll take it away. Next Tuesday, Judge Sotomayor will visit with Senator Reid, Senator Leahy, Senator Sessions -- and at the time of my coming out, we were working through the scheduling with Senator McConnell, but we believe that that's going to happen. And we are hopeful that other visits can be scheduled for that Tuesday and...


Remarks by the President at a DNC fundraiser, 5-27-09

; And then a couple of days ago I nominated this lady -- (applause) -- Sonia Sotomayor to be the next Supreme Court justice of the United States of America. (Applause.) I mean, think about the journey this woman has traveled -- from South Bronx, goes to Princeton, summa cum laude -- summa cum laude, not just, you know, magna or laude laude -- (laughter) -- but summa cum laude. Goes on to Yale, serves on the Law Journal, Manhattan DA, private practice,...


WEEKLY ADDRESS: President Obama Calls for Thorough and Timely Confirmation for Judge Sonia Sotomayor

The Press Office WEEKLY ADDRESS: President Obama Calls for Thorough and Timely Confirmation for Judge Sonia SotomayorIn his weekly address, President Barack Obama called for a rigorous, principled and swift confirmation for his Supreme Court nominee, Court of Appeals Judge Sonia Sotomayor. Judge Sotomayor’s extraordinary professional career, as a New York City prosecutor, a litigator, and as a judge...


Letter of Support to Senators from Sotomayor Law Clerks

The Press Office Letter of Support to Senators from Sotomayor Law ClerksAttached, please find a letter that was sent this morning to Senators Reid, McConnell, Leahy, and Sessions from law clerks of Judge Sonia Sotomayor expressing their full support for her elevation to the Supreme Court. THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary __________________________________________________ FOR IMMEDIATE...


Statement from the New York State Law Enforcement Council on the Sotomayor Nomination

The Press Office Statement from the New York State Law Enforcement Council on the Sotomayor NominationThe New York State Law Enforcement Council congratulates President Obama on his nomination of Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court. THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary ___________________________________________________________ FOR IMMEDIATE...


Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 6-1-09

and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Federative Republic of Brazil. Sonia Sotomayor, of New York, to be an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, vice David H. Souter, retiring


Schedule of Judge Sotomayor's Capitol Hill Meetings for June 2nd

The Press Office Schedule of Judge Sotomayor's Capitol Hill Meetings for June 2ndOn Tuesday June 2nd, Judge Sotomayor will visit Capitol Hill to meet with the following Senators: THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary _________________________________________________________________ For Immediate Release &


Briefing by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 6-2-09

. Q I'm sorry, one other quick topic. With Judge Sotomayor on the Hill today, I'm wondering what your early read is on the types of comments you're seeing, particularly from Republican senators? Is the White House confident that she's going to get a fair shake? MR. GIBBS: I think if you look at -- I don't know what in particular, in terms of comments, you want me to respond to -- Q There's been both a range


Family

on Credit Card Tactics: “Enough is Enough” At a town hall in New Mexico, the President emphasizes his commitment to signing the Credit Card Bill of Rights into law by Memorial Day. Includes video. READ THIS POST READ ALL RELATED BLOG POSTS FROM THE PRESS OFFICE WED, MAY 27, 3:37 PM EST What They're Saying About Judge Sotomayor TUE, MAY 26, 11:40 AM EST Remarks by the President in Nominating Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United...


Immigration

President Obama met with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, get an exclusive photo and look over the readout. READ THIS POST READ ALL RELATED BLOG POSTS FROM THE PRESS OFFICE TUE, MAY 26, 11:40 AM EST Remarks by the President in Nominating Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court FRI, MAY 1, 3:29 PM EST Remarks by the President at Naturalization Ceremony for Active Duty Service Members FRI, MAY 1, 1:04 PM EST Background On Naturalization Ceremony...


Urban Policy

is tough, but the recovery act is fighting back. READ THIS POST READ ALL RELATED BLOG POSTS FROM THE PRESS OFFICE WED, MAY 27, 3:37 PM EST What They're Saying About Judge Sotomayor TUE, MAY 26, 11:40 AM EST Remarks by the President in Nominating Judge Sonia Sotomayor to the United States Supreme Court FRI, MAY 15, 3:58 PM EST Vice President Biden Announces Nearly 100 Million In Recovery Act Funds To Clean Up Dangerous Lead In...


Ethics

Executive Order on Ethics READ THIS POST WED, APRIL 29, 12:10 PM EST "Words and Deeds" Norm Eisen, special counsel to the president for ethics and government reform, drops by to talk about progress on ethics and transparency since the President was sworn in. READ THIS POST READ ALL RELATED BLOG POSTS FROM THE PRESS OFFICE MON, JUNE 1, 8:59 AM EST Letter of Support to Senators from Sotomayor Law Clerks FRI, JANUARY 30, 12:00 AM EST Nondisplacement of Qualified...


Education

Player 8 or higher. Download the free player. FROM THE PRESS OFFICE MON, JUNE 1, 6:47 PM EST Presidential Proclamation Great Outdoors Month WED, MAY 27, 3:37 PM EST What They're Saying About Judge Sotomayor WED, MAY 27, 8:32 AM EST Remarks by the President at a fundraiser for Senator Harry Reid, 5/26/2009 READ ALL OTHER RELATED ITEMS You are Here: Home > Issues You are exiting the White House Web Server Thank you for visiting our site. You will now...


Civil Rights

prison terms in changing behavior. President Obama will also improve ex-offender employment and job retention strategies, substance abuse treatment, and mental health counseling so ex-offenders can successfully re-join society. RELATED BLOG POSTS FRI, MAY 29, 11:59 PM EST Weekly Address: The Experience of Judge Sotomayor The President discusses the breadth and depth of experience held by his nominee for the Supreme Court. READ THIS POST TUE, MAY 26, 12:15 PM EST...


Blog

Jack Hanna and his trainers brought to the White House, May 13, 2009. Official White House Photo by Samantha Appleton) (President Barack Obama is reflected in a mirror during an impromptu drop-by visit with speechwriters in David Axelrod's office in the West Wing of the White House on May 21, 2009. Official White House photo by Pete Souza) TUE, JUNE 2, 3:23 PM EST Judge Sotomayor, In Practice Posted by Katherine Brandon Today, Judge Sonia


Women

11, 10:46 AM EST Women in the White House Jenny Yeager, Special Assistant to the Director of the White House Office of Public Engagement READ THIS POST READ ALL RELATED BLOG POSTS Viewing this video requires Adobe Flash Player 8 or higher. Download the free player. FROM THE PRESS OFFICE WED, MAY 27, 5:03 PM EST Briefing by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 5/27/2009 WED, MAY 27, 3:37 PM EST What They're Saying About Judge Sotomayor TUE, MAY 26, 11:01 AM...


Welcome to the White House

and the American auto industry. White House Photo, 5/29/09, Lawrence Jackson Weekly Address 5/29/09 Sotomayor The President discusses the breadth and depth of experience held by his nominee for the Supreme Court. Open Government Initiative See some of the best and brightest innovation from around government, and contribute your own ideas. Photo Credit: J. Scott Willey The Economic Case for Health Care Reform As the President emphasizes the urgency of Health...


Your Weekly Address

Weekly Address: The Experience of Judge Sotomayor Posted by Jesse Lee The President discusses the breadth and depth of experience held by his nominee for the Supreme Court. SAT, MAY 23, 12:00 AM EST Weekly Address: Sacrifice Posted by Jesse Lee On Memorial Day weekend, President Obama calls on the American people to join him in paying tribute to America’s veterans, servicemen and women – particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice - and their...


20090603

See also:

Pres Obama’s remarks nominating Sotomayor to SCOTUS

http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/2009/05/remarks-by-obama-nominating-sotomayor.html


Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: www.kevindayhoff.net
Kevin Dayhoff Art: www.kevindayhoffart.com
Kevin Dayhoff Westminster: www.westgov.net
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevindayhoff
Twitpic: http://twitpic.com/photos/kevindayhoff
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/kevindayhoff
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Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Remarks by Obama nominating Sotomayor to SCOTUS

THE BRIEFING ROOM


THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

_________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release May 26, 2009

REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT
IN NOMINATING
JUDGE SONIA SOTOMAYOR TO THE UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT

10:13 A.M. EDT

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Well, I'm excited, too. (Laughter.)

Of the many responsibilities granted to a President by our Constitution, few are more serious or more consequential than selecting a Supreme Court justice. The members of our highest court are granted life tenure, often serving long after the Presidents who appointed them. And they are charged with the vital task of applying principles put to paper more than 20 [sic] centuries ago to some of the most difficult questions of our time.

So I don't take this decision lightly. I've made it only after deep reflection and careful deliberation. While there are many qualities that I admire in judges across the spectrum of judicial philosophy, and that I seek in my own nominee, there are few that stand out that I just want to mention.

First and foremost is a rigorous intellect -- a mastery of the law, an ability to hone in on the key issues and provide clear answers to complex legal questions. Second is a recognition of the limits of the judicial role, an understanding that a judge's job is to interpret, not make, law; to approach decisions without any particular ideology or agenda, but rather a commitment to impartial justice; a respect for precedent and a determination to faithfully apply the law to the facts at hand.

These two qualities are essential, I believe, for anyone who would sit on our nation's highest court. And yet, these qualities alone are insufficient. We need something more. For as Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes once said, "The life of the law has not been logic; it has been experience." Experience being tested by obstacles and barriers, by hardship and misfortune; experience insisting, persisting, and ultimately overcoming those barriers. It is experience that can give a person a common touch and a sense of compassion; an understanding of how the world works and how ordinary people live. And that is why it is a necessary ingredient in the kind of justice we need on the Supreme Court.

The process of reviewing and selecting a successor to Justice Souter has been rigorous and comprehensive, not least because of the standard that Justice Souter himself has set with his formidable intellect and fair-mindedness and decency. I've sought the advice of members of Congress on both sides of the aisle, including every member of the Senate Judiciary Committee. My team has reached out to constitutional scholars, advocacy organizations, and bar associations representing an array of interests and opinions. And I want to thank members of my staff and administration who've worked so hard and given so much of their time as part of this effort.

After completing this exhaustive process, I have decided to nominate an inspiring woman who I believe will make a great justice: Judge Sonia Sotomayor of the great state of New York. (Applause.)

Over a distinguished career that spans three decades, Judge Sotomayor has worked at almost every level of our judicial system, providing her with a depth of experience and a breadth of perspective that will be invaluable as a Supreme Court justice.

It's a measure of her qualities and her qualifications that Judge Sotomayor was nominated to the U.S. District Court by a Republican President, George H.W. Bush, and promoted to the Federal Court of Appeals by a Democrat, Bill Clinton. Walking in the door she would bring more experience on the bench, and more varied experience on the bench, than anyone currently serving on the United States Supreme Court had when they were appointed.

Judge Sotomayor is a distinguished graduate of two of America's leading universities. She's been a big-city prosecutor and a corporate litigator. She spent six years as a trial judge on the U.S. District Court, and would replace Justice Souter as the only justice with experience as a trial judge, a perspective that would enrich the judgments of the Court.

For the past 11 years she has been a judge on the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit of New York, one of the most demanding circuits in the country. There she has handed down decisions on a range of constitutional and legal questions that are notable for their careful reasoning, earning the respect of colleagues on the bench, the admiration of many lawyers who argue cases in her court, and the adoration of her clerks who look to her as a mentor.

During her tenure on the District Court, she presided over roughly 450 cases. One case in particular involved a matter of enormous concern to many Americans, including me: the baseball strike of 1994-1995. (Laughter.) In a decision that reportedly took her just 15 minutes to announce, a swiftness much appreciated by baseball fans everywhere -- (laughter) -- she issued an injunction that helped end the strike. Some say that Judge Sotomayor saved baseball. (Applause.)

Judge Sotomayor came to the District Court from a law firm where she was a partner focused on complex commercial litigation, gaining insight into the workings of a global economy. Before that she was a prosecutor in the Manhattan DA's office, serving under the legendary Robert Morgenthau, an early mentor of Sonia's who still sings her praises today. There, Sonia learned what crime can do to a family and a community, and what it takes to fight it. It's a career that has given her not only a sweeping overview of the American judicial system, but a practical understanding of how the law works in the everyday lives of the American people.

But as impressive and meaningful as Judge Sotomayor's sterling credentials in the law is her own extraordinary journey. Born in the South Bronx, she was raised in a housing project not far from Yankee Stadium, making her a lifelong Yankee's fan. I hope this will not disqualify her -- (laughter) -- in the eyes of the New Englanders in the Senate. (Laughter.)

Sonia's parents came to New York from Puerto Rico during the second world war, her mother as part of the Women's Army Corps. And, in fact, her mother is here today and I'd like us all to acknowledge Sonia's mom. (Applause.) Sonia's mom has been a little choked up. (Laughter.) But she, Sonia's mother, began a family tradition of giving back to this country. Sonia's father was a factory worker with a 3rd-grade education who didn't speak English. But like Sonia's mother, he had a willingness to work hard, a strong sense of family, and a belief in the American Dream.

When Sonia was nine, her father passed away. And her mother worked six days a week as a nurse to provide for Sonia and her brother -- who is also here today, is a doctor and a terrific success in his own right. But Sonia's mom bought the only set of encyclopedias in the neighborhood, sent her children to a Catholic school called Cardinal Spellman out of the belief that with a good education here in America all things are possible.

With the support of family, friends, and teachers, Sonia earned scholarships to Princeton, where she graduated at the top of her class, and Yale Law School, where she was an editor of the Yale Law Journal, stepping onto the path that led her here today.

Along the way she's faced down barriers, overcome the odds, lived out the American Dream that brought her parents here so long ago. And even as she has accomplished so much in her life, she has never forgotten where she began, never lost touch with the community that supported her.

What Sonia will bring to the Court, then, is not only the knowledge and experience acquired over a course of a brilliant legal career, but the wisdom accumulated from an inspiring life's journey.

It's my understanding that Judge Sotomayor's interest in the law was sparked as a young girl by reading the Nancy Drew series -- (laughter) -- and that when she was diagnosed with diabetes at the age of eight, she was informed that people with diabetes can't grow up to be police officers or private investigators like Nancy Drew. And that's when she was told she'd have to scale back her dreams.

Well, Sonia, what you've shown in your life is that it doesn't matter where you come from, what you look like, or what challenges life throws your way -- no dream is beyond reach in the United States of America.

And when Sonia Sotomayor ascends those marble steps to assume her seat on the highest court of the land, America will have taken another important step towards realizing the ideal that is etched above its entrance: Equal justice under the law.

I hope the Senate acts in a bipartisan fashion, as it has in confirming Judge Sotomayor twice before, and as swiftly as possible so that she can take her seat on the Court in September and participate in deliberations as the Court chooses which cases it will hear this coming year.

And with that, I'd like all of you to give a warm greeting as I invite Judge Sotomayor to say a few words. (Applause.)

JUDGE SOTOMAYOR: I was just counseled not to be nervous. (Laughter.) That's almost impossible. (Laughter.)

Thank you, Mr. President, for the most humbling honor of my life. You have nominated me to serve on the country's highest court, and I am deeply moved.

I could not, in the few minutes I have today, mention the names of the many friends and family who have guided and supported me throughout my life and who have been instrumental in helping me realize my dreams. I see many of those faces in this room. Each of you, whom I love deeply, will know that my heart today is bursting with gratitude for all you have done for me.

The President has said to you that I bring my family. In the audience is my brother, Juan Sotomayor -- he's a physician in Syracuse, New York; my sister-in-law, Tracey; my niece, Kylie -- she looks like me -- (laughter) -- my twin nephews, Conner and Corey. I stand on the shoulders of countless people, yet there is one extraordinary person who is my life aspiration -- that person is my mother, Celina Sotomayor. (Applause.)

My mother has devoted her life to my brother and me, and as the President mentioned, she worked often two jobs to help support us after Dad died. I have often said that I am all I am because of her, and I am only half the woman she is.

Sitting next to her is Omar Lopez, my mom's husband and a man whom I have grown to adore. I thank you for all that you have given me and continue to give me. I love you. (Applause.)

I chose to be a lawyer, and ultimately a judge, because I find endless challenge in the complexities of the law. I firmly believe in the rule of law as the foundation for all of our basic rights. For as long as I can remember, I have been inspired by the achievement of our Founding Fathers. They set forth principles that have endured for more than two centuries. Those principles are as meaningful and relevant in each generation as the generation before. It would be a profound privilege for me to play a role in applying those principles to the questions and controversies we face today.

Although I grew up in very modest and challenging circumstances, I consider my life to be immeasurably rich. I was raised in a Bronx public housing project, but studied at two of the nation's finest universities. I did work as an assistant district attorney, prosecuting violent crimes that devastate our communities. But then I joined a private law firm and worked with international corporations doing business in the United States. I have had the privilege of serving as a Federal District Court trial judge, and am now serving as a Federal Appellate Circuit Court judge.

This wealth of experiences, personal and professional, have helped me appreciate the variety of perspectives that present themselves in every case that I hear. It has helped me to understand, respect, and respond to the concerns and arguments of all litigants who appear before me, as well as to the views of my colleagues on the bench. I strive never to forget the real-world consequences of my decisions on individuals, businesses, and government.

It is a daunting feeling to be here. Eleven years ago, during my confirmation process for appointment to the Second Circuit, I was given a private tour of the White House. It was an overwhelming experience for a kid from the South Bronx. Yet never in my wildest childhood imaginings did I ever envision that moment, let alone did I ever dream that I would live this moment.

Mr. President, I greatly appreciate the honor you are giving me, and I look forward to working with the Senate in the confirmation process. I hope that as the Senate and the American people learn more about me they will see that I am an ordinary person who has been blessed with extraordinary opportunities and experiences. Today is one of those experiences.

Thank you again, sir. (Applause.)

END
10:53 A.M. EDT

Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: www.kevindayhoff.net Kevin Dayhoff Art: www.kevindayhoffart.com Kevin Dayhoff Westminster: www.westgov.net Twitter: https://twitter.com/kevindayhoff Twitpic: http://twitpic.com/photos/kevindayhoff YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/kevindayhoff Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1040426835

Friday, May 01, 2009

Some of the moving gears to replace Justice David Souter


Some of the moving gears to replace Justice David Souter

April 30, 2009

Considering that Justice David Souter was relatively liberal-leaning and he will have his replacement named by the most liberal president in American history, (after consultation with Hugo Chavez?) there will be essentially little ideological change in direction in the court. Thank the Good Lord…

More info…

AP What comes next: Filling a Supreme Court vacancy by JESSE J. HOLLAND May 1, 2009 04:19 AM EST

Compare other versions »

WASHINGTON — Now that Justice David Souter has helped solve the mystery of whether anyone would retire from the Supreme Court this year, what's next? How will the executive and legislative branches of government set about filling a vacancy on the nation's highest court?

Read the rest of the AP story here: What comes next: Filling a Supreme Court vacancy

20090501 AP Some of the moving gears to replace Justice David Souter
Kevin Dayhoff Soundtrack: www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/
Kevin Dayhoff Art: www.kevindayhoff.com
Kevin Dayhoff Westminster: www.westgov.net

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Newser – Obama: Do not blame for Oath Hiccup


Newser – Obama: Do not blame for Oath Hiccup


According to a Twitter by TheSleuth: “Chuck Schumer tells us he's ticked off at Chief Justice Roberts for blowing the oath”

Ay caramba. Let us count all the significant things for which we may be upset with the august Senator Schumer…

Somehow, I am not surprised that President Barack Obama responded with class.

Newser - Obama: Don't Blame Roberts for Oath Hiccup

Jan 20, 09 in
Politics

(Newser) – President Obama is not among those blaming Chief Justice John Roberts for their little oath glitch today. “We’re up there, we’ve got a lot of stuff on our mind, and he actually helped me out on a couple of stanzas there,” Obama told ABC News. Roberts has taken grief for misplacing the word "faithfully" in one line, but many have pointed out that Obama may have thrown him off by interrupting an earlier line, the Hill notes.


Read more. Sources: ABC, The Hill

http://www.newser.com/story/48505/obama-dont-blame-roberts-for-oath-hiccup.html

20090120 SDOSM Newser Obama Do not blame for Oath Hiccup


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YCjocLNEkGQ




Words:
Roberts: Are you prepared to take the oath senator?
Obama: I am.
Roberts: I Barack Hussein Obama do....
Obama: I Barac....
Roberts: do solemnly swear.
Obama: I Barack Hussein Obama do solemnly swear.
Roberts: That I will execute the office of the President to The United States faithfully.
Obama: I will execute...
Roberts: The off-faithfully the President office of the President of The United States.
Obama: Office of President of The United States faithfully.
Roberts: And will to the best of my ability.
Obama: And will to the best of my ability.
Roberts: Preserve, Protect, and Defend The Constitution of The United States.
Obama: Preserve, Protect, and Defend The Constitution of The United States.
Roberts: So help you God?
Obama: So help me God!
Roberts: Congratulations Mr. President.


Kevin Dayhoff www.kevindayhoff.net http://kevindayhoff.blogspot.com/

Saturday, October 04, 2008

How much for the Heller case lawyers?

How much should the Heller lawyers be paid for winning the case against the DC gun law?

A controversy is growing over the proper payment of the three lawyers who handled the Heller case that result in the DC gun law being struck down as unconstitutional.
The trio make their case today in the Examiner.

How much for the Heller case lawyers?

Alan Gura, Robert A. Levy, and Clark Neily, Guest columnists 10/3/08

Prevailing parties in civil rights cases are entitled to a "reasonable" attorney's fee. We are the attorneys who represented Dick Heller in the landmark Supreme Court case striking down Washington, D.C.'s handgun ban on Second Amendment grounds, and we have asked the court to award us $3.5 million for six years of litigation.

The Washington Post has characterized that request as "adding insult to injury" and a "windfall" to which we are not entitled. The Post's editorial is long on rhetoric but short on analysis. In fact, the $3.5 million request is perfectly reasonable under existing court precedent.

The purpose of the fee-shifting provision is to ensure "vigorous enforcement" of civil rights laws, especially when monetary damages are not available and the claimants may not be able to afford competent legal counsel. To attain that goal, prevailing lawyers should receive a market rate for their efforts.

[…]

With respect to our recorded hours, the total was under 3,100 for three lawyers over six years. No reasonable person could consider those hours excessive, particularly considering that we were up against more than a dozen lawyers – some of them eminent Supreme Court practitioners – from the D.C. Attorney General's office and three of the nation's largest and most elite law firms.

[...]

More:
How much for the Heller case lawyers?

20081003 How much for the Heller case lawyers

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

20071112 Poughkeepsie Journal: Panels explore presidents' relationship with Supreme Court By Michael Woyton


Poughkeepsie Journal: Panels explore presidents' relationship with Supreme Court By Michael Woyton

http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071112/NEWS01/711120329/1006/NEWS01

Former justice gives keynote speech at 2-day conference

Monday, November 12, 2007

By Michael Woyton Poughkeepsie Journal

Photo by Denise DeVore/For the Poughkeepsie Journal

Former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor gave the keynote address during “The Presidency and the Supreme Court” conference on Sunday, at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park.

Related: 20071111 The Presidency and the Supreme Court conference Agenda Or click on:

History American Presidents – and the Supreme Court Conference at FDR Presidential Library Nov. 11 and 12 2007

HYDE PARK - Former Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, speaking on "The Presidency and the Supreme Court," focused on four historic moments "in which the two large offices (the executive and the judiciary) have intersected, overlapped and even clashed," she said.

The first two involved Thomas Jefferson and the establishment of judicial review by the court and Abraham Lincoln's suspending habeas corpus, or the right to petition for relief from unlawful detention, during the Civil War.

The third centered on FDR and his desire to pack the court with his justice picks.

"He was more than a little annoyed that the justices were giving thumbs down to his legislation," O'Connor said.

The final example took place during the Korean War, when Harry Truman was prevented by the Supreme Court from taking over the steel mills to prevent a strike.

O'Connor was the keynote speaker at the conference organized by the presidential libraries and held at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park.

Read the entire article here: Poughkeepsie Journal: Panels explore presidents' relationship with Supreme Court By Michael Woyton

Sunday, November 11, 2007

20071111 The Presidency and the Supreme Court conference Agenda


This weekend I am attending a conference on the Presidency and the Supreme Court – November 11th and 12th, 2007 at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum

The Presidency and the Supreme Court conference brings together a wide range of speakers, including scholars, policymakers, and journalists to deliberate on the complex relationship between the Court and the Presidency and the impact of that interaction on American society. Panels focus not only on the political process of Supreme Court nominations and confirmations, but examines the Court's influence on social issues, civil rights and governmental power in times of crisis. The conference also includes a keynote address by former Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.

This conference is sponsored by the nation's twelve Presidential Libraries, their foundations, the National Archives, the Foundation for the National Archives, and the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute with generous support from:

Thomson West, Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge LLP, Frederick P. Furth, Wiley Rein LLP

The Presidency and the Supreme Court conference Agenda

AGENDA

Sunday, November 11, 2007

1:00 p.m.

Welcoming Remarks

Professor Allen Weinstein, Archivist of the United States;

Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, Co-Chair,

Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute;

Former President George H. W. Bush (via video).

1:15 - 3:00 p.m.

Presidents Hoover and Roosevelt and the 1930s Supreme Court

The consequential Supreme Court decisions, appointments, and presidential politics of the 1930s.

Chair: Alan Brinkley, Provost, Columbia University; Professors William E. Leuchtenburg and G. Edward White; Author and Newsweek Senior Editor Jonathan Alter.

3:00 - 4:45 p.m.

Shaping the Modern Court: Presidents Truman through Clinton

Insider accounts of Supreme Court appointments and how the appointment process has changed over the past sixty years.

Chair: Allen Weinstein; Ambassador C. Boyden Gray; Professors Douglas Brinkley and Laura Kalman.

5:00 p.m.

Keynote Address: The Honorable Sandra Day O'Connor

Monday, November 12, 2007

9:15 a.m.

Welcoming Remarks

Sharon Fawcett, Assistant Archivist for Presidential Libraries;

The Hon. Judith S. Kaye, Chief Judge of the State of New York.

Moderator for the day: National Public Radio Legal Affairs Correspondent Nina Totenberg.

9:30 - 11:30 a.m.

The Presidency, the Supreme Court and Civil Rights

The interactions of Presidents and the Supreme Court on topics relating to race, discrimination, equality and civil rights.

Civil rights leader and former Assistant Attorney General Roger Wilkins; Professor David A. Nichols; former Secretary of Education the Hon. Shirley Hufstedler; Professor and former President of the American Civil Liberties Union Norman Dorsen; National Public Radio Senior Correspondent Juan Williams.

Lunch Break

12:45 - 2:45 p.m.

The Presidency, the Supreme Court and the "Culture Wars"

Presidential and Supreme Court concerns and decisions relating to abortion, the death penalty, gay rights, religion and other topics of societal division.

The Hon. Michael W. McConnell; Professors Heather Gerken and Michael C. Dorf.

3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

The Supreme Court and Presidential Power

Supreme Court adjudication of the limits of executive power under the Constitution, especially in times of war and crisis.

Professor John Q. Barrett; former White House Counsel John W. Dean; Author and New York Times Columnist Anthony Lewis; former White House Counsel Beth Nolan.

5:00 p.m.

Concluding Remarks

Ambassador William J. vanden Heuvel, Founder and Chairman Emeritus, Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute.

Friday, October 05, 2007

20071004 The upcoming Presidency and the Supreme Court conference info


The upcoming Presidency and the Supreme Court conference info

October 4, 2007

http://www.fdrlibrary.marist.edu/PSChome.html

AGENDA | FLYER

The Presidency and the Supreme Court conference brings together a wide range of speakers, including scholars, policymakers, and journalists to deliberate on the complex relationship between the Court and the Presidency and the impact of that interaction on American society. Panels focus not only on the political process of Supreme Court nominations and confirmations, but examines the Court's influence on social issues, civil rights and governmental power in times of crisis. The conference also includes a keynote address by former Justice Sandra Day O'Connor.

To register call (845) 486-1966.


This conference is sponsored by the nation's twelve Presidential Libraries, their foundations, the National Archives, the Foundation for the National Archives, and the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute with generous support from:

Thomson West

Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge LLP

Frederick P. Furth

Wiley Rein LLP

CONFERENCE HOME | AGENDA | FLYER

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

20070730 Chief justice Roberts hospitalized after seizure

Chief justice hospitalized after seizure

Roberts, 52, reportedly suffers minor scrapes, to stay overnight in hospital

MSNBC: Updated: 11:14 p.m. ET July 30, 2007 (AP)

WASHINGTON - Chief Justice John Roberts suffered a seizure at his summer home in Maine on Monday, causing a fall that resulted in minor scrapes, Supreme Court spokeswoman Kathy Arberg said.

He will remain in a hospital in Maine overnight.

“It’s my understanding he’s fully recovered, said Christopher Burke, a spokesman for Penobscot Bay Medical Center, where Roberts was taken.

Roberts, 52, was taken by ambulance to the medical center, where he underwent a “thorough neurological evaluation, which revealed no cause for concern,” Arberg said in a statement.

Roberts had a similar episode in 1993, she said.

Doctors called Monday’s incident “a benign idiopathic seizure,” Arberg said. The White House described the January 1993 episode as an “isolated, idiosyncratic seizure.” Both descriptions indicate that doctors could not determine the seizure’s cause or link it to another medical condition. For example, doctors would have quickly ruled out simple explanations such as dehydration or low blood sugar.

Roberts, who was named to the court in 2005, has led the Supreme Court to a more conservative stance, along with Justice Samuel Alito, who won confirmation in early 2006. Conservative causes have won twice as often as they lost on the Roberts-led court. The 2006-07 term brought limits on abortion rights, restrictions on school integration programs and greater freedom for political advertising.

Medical opinions differed on just what Roberts’ seizures mean.

Someone who has had more than one seizure without any other cause is determined to have epilepsy, said Dr. Marc Schlosberg, a neurologist at Washington Hospital Center, who is not involved in the Roberts’ case.

More…

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Related:

Roberts' rule: Conservative but incremental

Roberts, Alito help define new Supreme Court

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20039923/

Tuesday, June 26, 2007

20070625 Congressman Bartlett Applauds Today’s Supreme Court Opinion

Congressman Bartlett Applauds Today’s Supreme Court Opinion

Striking a blow for the 1st Amendment.

June 25, 2007

My Tentacle column this Wednesday will be on the “Federal Election Commission v. Wisconsin Right to Life” and “McCain v. Wisconsin Right to Life” Supreme Court Decision:

Many are singing high praise of the U. S. Supreme Court decision handed down last Monday which took a bite out of the McCain Feingold campaign reforms.

The ruling has been applauded by the unusual alliance of powerful unions, big business, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The court decided in “Federal Election Commission v. Wisconsin Right to Life” and “McCain v. Wisconsin Right to Life”; that restrictions on issue ads run by “special interests” in the waning days before an election are an unconstitutional infringement on free speech.

Initial analysis indicates that the decision will have an impact on the 2008 elections…

Meanwhile Congressman Bartlett says:

Congressman Roscoe Bartlett Applauds Today’s Supreme Court Opinion to Help Restore First Amendment Political Speech Rights

Washington, D.C. – The Supreme Court today substantially weakened the McCain-Feingold campaign finance act's restrictions on the type of advertisement non-profit grassroots organizations, corporations and special interest groups may run in the days before an election. Congressman Bartlett said, “It is a step in the right direction for First Amendment political speech rights. My bill, the First Amendment Restoration Act (H.R. 71), goes much further to restore Americans’ First Amendment rights by repealing the “electioneering communication” provision at issue in today’s Supreme Court opinion.

Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. wrote the 5-4 opinion for the court, stating that Wisconsin Right-to-Life should have been allowed to broadcast ads before the 2004 race for the United States Senate in that state. The portion of the law in question in the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 (BCRA) states that labor unions and corporations (including non-profits) cannot use money from their general treasuries to broadcast ads that run 30 days before a primary or 60 days before a general election, are aimed at a relevant electorate and mention a federal candidate by name.

The difference between so-called "issue ads," which are allowed, and those that "express advocacy," which are banned, is often hard to define, Chief Justice Roberts stated. In today's decision, the Supreme Court created a constitutional safe harbor for genuine issue ads. It stated that, only if the ad “is susceptible of no reasonable interpretation other than as an appeal to vote for or against a specific candidate” can the ad be prohibited during the blackout period. “Chief Justice Roberts’ reasoning is significant,” Congressman Bartlett said. Chief Justice Roberts reasoned, “In drawing that line, the First Amendment requires us to err on the side of protecting political speech rather than suppressing it.”

Congressman Bartlett said, “The reason that I introduced H.R. 71 (H.R. 689 in the 109th Congress, first introduced as H.R. 3801 in the 108th Congress) is because I am firmly committed to protecting our Constitution. As stated in the First Amendment to the Constitution, ‘Congress shall make no law . . . abridging the freedom of speech.’ No constitutional right is absolute; however, it is clearly a violation of the First Amendment to restrict organized group communications and limit what people can say about a candidate and when they may choose to speak out.”

“I, along with many others including the President, believe that the Supreme Court made a mistake in the December 2003 decision upholding the constitutionality of the 30-60 day provision,” said Congressman Bartlett. “The 30-60 day BCRA provision eviscerates the central purpose of the First Amendment’s guarantee of free speech – the protection of political speech. My bill would simply repeal this provision. Today’s Supreme Court decision, however, does help to weaken the unconstitutional BCRA provision.”

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For more information Contact: Lisa Wright or Monica DeLong at (202) 225-2721