Judge John G. Roberts Jr. on Gay Rights

The unexpected death of Judge William Rehnquist, former chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, and the retirement of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor sent a shock wave through most gay rights organizations. Although Rehnquist's decisions on gay rights were negative and O'Connor's were generally in favor of gay rights, glbt people wonder if an appointment of current D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals judge, John Roberts, to the nations highest court could have an adverse affect on gay rights causes for many years to come. Supreme Court Justices Affect Gay Rights

Supreme Court appointments are lifetime assignments. Gay activists hope for a Supreme Court justice that can make fair-minded decisions on gay rights issues such as same-sex marriage, gay adoption, hate crime legislation and other pressing issues.

Supreme Court Nominees Are Chosen by the President

The President of the United States has the authority to nominate justices to the Supreme Court under Article II, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution. The President then "consults" with the Senate. Once a nominee is presented, the Senate Judiciary Committee holds hearings to review the nominees previous decisions, records and ideology. A recommendation following the outcome of a vote is then presented to the full Senate, who continue the deliberations until a final vote is made and "consent" is given.

With only two government entities at play in the appointment of a life-long judge, it's important to also account for the President's and the Senate's history on gay rights issues- as they are apt to choose a justice that best fits their ideology. With important gay rights issues now in the political and judicial forefront, gay rights groups are not willing to gamble with a anti-gay or biased Supreme Court nominee... <a href="http://gaylife.about.com/od/gayrights/i/johnrobertsgay_2.htm">continue</a>