"We know that this man has a proven record of being a 'strict constructionist.' Our President has given us his word that he will interpret the Constitution rather than make new laws from the bench"
About this Quote
Rod Parsley’s statement draws attention to the qualities and judicial philosophies desirable in a nominee for judicial office, specifically the Supreme Court. The reference to a "proven record of being a 'strict constructionist'" alludes to a judge’s commitment to interpreting the Constitution based solely on its text as understood at the time it was written. This judicial philosophy opposes more expansive or modern interpretations that might adapt constitutional principles to evolving societal contexts. By favoring a "strict constructionist", Parsley is expressing approval of a judge who would resist extending or reinterpreting constitutional provisions beyond their original meaning.
By invoking the authority of "our President" and highlighting his promise, Parsley is appealing to trust in the executive’s judgment regarding judicial appointments. The President’s assurance, interpreting the Constitution rather than making new laws, distinguishes the judicial role from the legislative. It emphasizes the fundamental principle of separation of powers: judges are tasked with applying the law, not crafting it. "Making new laws from the bench" is a criticism often leveled against judges perceived as "activist", those accused of using their position to enact policy changes through judicial decisions rather than through the legislative process.
Underlying Parsley's remarks is concern, shared by many conservatives, that judicial overreach undermines democratic processes, granting judges too much influence over public policy decisions that ought to result from political debate and legislation. The endorsement of a strict constructionist is a call for judicial restraint, a belief that courts should defer to the text and original intent of the Constitution and statutes, enabling elected representatives to determine the nation's laws. Parsley’s confidence that the President’s nominee will adhere to this narrow interpretive approach is meant to reassure those wary of judicial activism and advocate for the maintenance of the traditional boundaries between the three branches of government.
By invoking the authority of "our President" and highlighting his promise, Parsley is appealing to trust in the executive’s judgment regarding judicial appointments. The President’s assurance, interpreting the Constitution rather than making new laws, distinguishes the judicial role from the legislative. It emphasizes the fundamental principle of separation of powers: judges are tasked with applying the law, not crafting it. "Making new laws from the bench" is a criticism often leveled against judges perceived as "activist", those accused of using their position to enact policy changes through judicial decisions rather than through the legislative process.
Underlying Parsley's remarks is concern, shared by many conservatives, that judicial overreach undermines democratic processes, granting judges too much influence over public policy decisions that ought to result from political debate and legislation. The endorsement of a strict constructionist is a call for judicial restraint, a belief that courts should defer to the text and original intent of the Constitution and statutes, enabling elected representatives to determine the nation's laws. Parsley’s confidence that the President’s nominee will adhere to this narrow interpretive approach is meant to reassure those wary of judicial activism and advocate for the maintenance of the traditional boundaries between the three branches of government.
Quote Details
| Topic | Justice |
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