ACLJ: Release of John Roberts' Documents Show Conservative Judicial Philosophy on Issues Ranging from School Prayer to Abortion

August 16, 2005

(Washington, DC) The American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ), focusing on constitutional law, said today the release of additional documents written by John Roberts during the Reagan Administration underscore the fact that the Supreme Court nominee embraces a conservative philosophy on issues ranging from abortion to school prayer.  The documents revealed: that Roberts did not believe voluntary silent prayer in public schools was unconstitutional and wrote a 1985 memo stating that the Supreme Court's conclusion that "the Constitution prohibits such a moment of silent reflection -- or even silent 'prayer' -- seems indefensible;" that a memorial service for aborted fetuses was an entirely appropriate means of calling attention to the abortion tragedy; and that abortion clinic violence was unacceptable in a letter he drafted for the White House in 1986 saying those who resort to violence . . . are criminals.  The letter undercuts a false assertion made by NARAL in a television ad linking Roberts to abortion clinic violence an ad that NARAL pulled after universal criticism that the claims made were false.

The documents show that John Roberts has maintained a consistent conservative judicial philosophy that dates back to early in his career, said Jay Sekulow, Chief Counsel of the ACLJ who is working to ensure that Roberts is confirmed.  His service during the Reagan Administration shows a skilled attorney not afraid to tackle the thorny issues of the day approaching those issues with clarity and conviction always exercising a judicial philosophy that centers on interpreting the Constitution, not re-writing it.  John Roberts has a record of accomplishment and a keen understanding of the proper role of the judiciary.  He will make an outstanding Supreme Court justice and we look forward to the confirmation hearings.

Led by Chief Counsel Jay Sekulow, the ACLJ focuses on constitutional law and is based in Washington, D.C.