ACLJ: John Roberts' Testimony "Open and Honest" in Confirmation Hearings Before Senate Judiciary Committee

September 13, 2005

(Washington, DC) The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), focusing on constitutional law, said the testimony of Supreme Court nominee John Roberts is open and honest as he addresses questions before the Senate Judiciary Committee.

The following statement was issued by Jay Sekulow, Chief Counsel of the ACLJ who supports the nomination and is attending the confirmation hearings:

The testimony of John Roberts is open and honest and shows the American people that his judicial philosophy embraces the Constitution and the rule of law.  His answers to a wide variety of questions concerning some of the most critical issues of our day reflect a sound view that judges should decide cases not legislate from the bench.  As nominee for Chief Justice, John Roberts understands the role and limitations of the high court.  He believes strongly in the separation of powers.  His answers on the right to privacy are legally correct and represent the mainstream views of the American people.  His answers also demonstrate that as a nominee to the high court it would be inappropriate for him to comment on applying law or precedent to cases that are likely to come before the court.  Thats the same standard utilized by all previous Supreme Court nominees in answering questions.  John Roberts must not be subjected to a series of litmus tests during this confirmation proceeding.  He is being open and honest about his judicial philosophy and how he views the judicial process and the role of the judiciary.

The American Center for Law and Justice is based in Washington, D.C.