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Second Day of Judge Roberts' Hearing Begins with Focus on Abortion
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US Senate Judiciary Committee hearings began Monday, with nominee
saying he believes judges are not politicians, and that he does not
have an agenda or a platform





Supreme Court nominee John G. Roberts during his confirmation hearing
on Capitol HillThe U.S. Senate has begun a second day of confirmation
hearings for Chief Justice nominee Judge John Roberts.

Republican Senator Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania immediately asked
Judge Roberts several questions about "Roe v. Wade," the 1973 Supreme
Court decision that legalized abortion.

Mr. Roberts said he would not discuss his view of specific rulings.
But he said Roe v. Wade and a 1992 decision upholding it are "entitled
to respect," under a legal principle (stare decisis) that says settled
rulings should be allowed to stand.

He said overruling a precedent delivers a jolt to the legal system and
should be carefully considered.

The nominee rejected any suggestion that his Roman Catholic religious
faith would influence his decisions.

The Senate Judiciary Committee hearings began Monday, with Mr. Roberts
saying he believes judges are not politicians, and that he does not
have an agenda or a platform.

If the Senate approves Judge Roberts, he would replace late Chief
Justice William Rehnquist.


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