September 2, 2005

Confirmation Hearings Begin for Supreme Court Nominee Judge John Roberts

STORY IDEA: As confirmation hearings begin Tuesday to appoint Judge John Roberts as the next justice to sit on the United States Supreme Court, Americans on both the left and right sides of the political aisle view much is at stake.

Local attorney and political pundit Brent Smith of Johns, Flaherty & Collins can discuss the nomination process, including the hearings beginning Tuesday, and offer a nonpartisan perspective on the implications of Roberts’ appointment if confirmed and the impact his personal philosophy could have on the American justice system.

BACKGROUND: John Roberts currently serves as a U.S. Circuit Judge in Washington D.C. Considered a conservative, he is President George W. Bush’s first nominee to the Supreme Court.

If confirmed by the Senate, Roberts will replace Justice Sandra Day O’Connor who is retiring. Justice O’Connor was nominated by President Ronald Reagan. During her 24 years on the high court, she often cast the deciding vote on some of the most important and contentious issues of public debate.

CONTACT: Brent Smith, Johns, Flaherty & Collins, 608-784-5678 or Annette Mikat, Mikat Public Relations, 608-782-1780.