Saturday, April 10, 2004
The Sioux Falls Argus Leader
April 11, 2004
'Activist judges'
Blasting progressive rulings, the Christian right blames "activist judges." But of the seven Massachusetts justices who approved same-sex marriage, six were Republican appointees. Likewise, four of the six U.S. Supreme Court justices who overturned the Texas sodomy case were seated by Republican presidents.
The "activist judge" movement is more dangerous than an unnecessary constitutional amendment. The real goal is term-limiting judges - nullifying the power of the judicial branch and eliminating checks and balances. With equal branches of government, we allow courts to lead the way even when such leadership may overrule public opinion and special interests.
Politicians like former Rep. John Thune, R-S.D., disagree, and are determined to weaken church and state boundaries. In his final months in Congress, Thune sponsored "The House of Worship Political Speech Protection Act," to allow churches and groups like the South Dakota Family Policy Council to endorse candidates and contribute 20 percent of their collection plates.
April 11, 2004
'Activist judges'
Blasting progressive rulings, the Christian right blames "activist judges." But of the seven Massachusetts justices who approved same-sex marriage, six were Republican appointees. Likewise, four of the six U.S. Supreme Court justices who overturned the Texas sodomy case were seated by Republican presidents.
The "activist judge" movement is more dangerous than an unnecessary constitutional amendment. The real goal is term-limiting judges - nullifying the power of the judicial branch and eliminating checks and balances. With equal branches of government, we allow courts to lead the way even when such leadership may overrule public opinion and special interests.
Politicians like former Rep. John Thune, R-S.D., disagree, and are determined to weaken church and state boundaries. In his final months in Congress, Thune sponsored "The House of Worship Political Speech Protection Act," to allow churches and groups like the South Dakota Family Policy Council to endorse candidates and contribute 20 percent of their collection plates.
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