Roberts' Answers on Privacy Provide No Assurance to Pro-Choice Americans

"In his first round of questioning, John Roberts failed to state whether he believes the right to privacy includes a woman's right to choose as recognized in Roe v. Wade. He still must answer this vital question directly; the American people expect him to do so as the hearings go forward.

"Furthermore, Roberts' comments on precedent and the role of stare decisis did not take into account the very real fact that there is more than one way to dismantle Roe. In this coming session alone, the Supreme Court will take up at least two reproductive rights-related cases. The Supreme Court could render Roe v. Wade a shell of itself, even without overturning the landmark decision. Roberts' answers to Sen. Specter's questions did nothing to give Americans confidence that, as Chief Justice, he would protect their fundamental freedoms."

Contact:
Ted Miller, 202.973.3032