Full Court Press

Justice John Stevens announced his intention to retire this summer, from his post as Associate Justice of the United State Supreme Court.  Eighty-nine year-old Justice Stevens is considered a liberal member of the court although he was originally appointed by the Ford (Republican) administration in 1975.  The retirement of Justice Stevens will provide President Obama with his second appointment to the highest court in our nation.  Unfortunately, this is not good news for conservatives or for our county.  President Obama does not believe in blind justice or in the original interpretation of the Constitution.  Instead, he believes the framework and foundation of our nation should be loosely interpreted by the courts to ensure social and economic justice.

During a press conference on Friday, President Obama communicated some of his views when he indicated that he would seek a candidate with, “a keen understanding of how the law affects the daily lives of the American people.” He went on to explain that the candidate should be someone who “knows that in a democracy, powerful interests must not be allowed to drown out the voices of ordinary citizens.” No mention of a strict adherence to the Constitution.  No comment about true justice and liberty.  But none of us should be surprised by any of this.  During an infamous radio interview in 2001, Obama discussed his view of the Constitution, at one point saying he felt consistent when stating, “It was a remarkable political document that paved the way for where we are now and to say that it also reflected the fundamental flaw of this country that continues to this day.” Clearly, the President did not and does not view our Constitution favorably.

Since President Obama is a basketball fan, I hope the Republican Party does something he will understand.  The Republicans need to use a full court press defense against the pending nomination and keep the appointment from happening until the November elections are complete and the new representatives are sworn into office.  Put pressure on the administration every step of the way.  Stifle progress of the nomination process and use every legal means available to delay the coming appointment.  Why is this important?  Well, let’s consider the possibility that the elections will result in a greater number of conservatives in office.  This would give the Republicans greater leverage in preventing another left-wing ideologue from being confirmed to the Supreme Court and having that appointee on the court for decades to come.  Obviously, President Obama will play a fast paced offense and will push to get his nominee confirmed.  But a great defense would eventually force President Obama to consider more moderate candidates for the position.  Yes, we should hope that the Republicans can trap the appointment until reinforcements arrive after this year’s elections.  We all know that March madness is over, but now we’re facing progressive madness.  It’s time to “D” up.