Upholding the Rule of Law: Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. at Penn Law School

Upholding the Rule of Law: Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. at Penn Law School

Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. delivered a speech at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law in a democratic society.

Key Points from the Speech

  • Foundation of Democracy: Roberts stated that the rule of law is "the foundation upon which our democracy is built." It ensures accountability for actions and provides a framework for resolving disputes and maintaining social order.

  • Growing Concerns: His comments come amid rising concerns about the rule of law. Critics argue that certain laws and policies may undermine this principle by allowing government officials to act with impunity or by creating exceptions to established procedures.

  • Judicial Role: Roberts reiterated that judges are not policymakers but interpreters of laws passed by Congress. He stated, "The Constitution does not give us policy-making authority. It gives us interpretive authority."

  • Adherence to Laws: He stressed the importance of adhering to established laws and procedures, cautioning against creating exceptions without clear justification: "We must be careful not to create exceptions or carve-outs from these rules without clear justification."

  • Mixed Reactions: Over his nearly 18 years as chief justice, Roberts has received both praise and criticism. Some commend him for maintaining stability on a divided court, while others criticize him for being too deferential to Congress’s legislative powers.

  • Concerns About Executive Power: Recently, legal scholars have expressed concerns about the erosion of checks on executive power under President Joe Biden’s administration. The White House has countered these claims, asserting that its actions are lawful under existing statutes or executive orders from previous administrations.

  • Importance of Accountability: In his speech, Roberts emphasized that adherence to existing rules is crucial for governance. He stated, "The rule of law is essential because it helps ensure accountability. When we follow established procedures, we can trust each other — even when we disagree — because we know how decisions will be made."

Roberts’ address serves as a reminder of the critical role the rule of law plays in maintaining a functioning democracy and the responsibilities of those in power to uphold it.

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