Roe in the Crosshairs

New appointments to the Supreme Court should be of prime importance in the upcoming Presidential election in light of the recent decisions made by the Court. The decision on partial birth abortion was most significant. Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, a member of the conservative majority, cast the deciding vote. The abortion issue has been in the forefront of Supreme Court decisions since the historic Roe v. Wade ruling in 1973.

Most analysts agree that three Justices are likely to retire within the next four years. The names mentioned are the oldest - Justices Rhenquist and Stevens and Justice O'Connor. Justice O'Connor is usually linked with the conservatives on the bench, however, she has been the swing vote. Should George W. Bush be elected in November, the issue of whom he will appoint to the Supreme Court is a critical one.

George W. Bush unequivocally denounced the partial birth abortion decision of June 28, 2000. It is clear that he would appoint Justices who reflect his views on the reversal of Roe v. Wade and a woman's right to choose. Under the Constitution, only the Senate may approve Presidential appointments to the U.S. Supreme Court. At the present time, the Republican Party controls the Senate by a 55-45 margin. It will be difficult indeed for the Democratic Party to regain control of the Senate even if Al Gore is elected President. I predict that the Republican Party will retain control over the Senate if George W Bush is elected President.

The electorate should take heed of this crucial issue before casting a vote for George W. Bush and Republican Senatorial candidates. A vote for Al Gore is a vote to preserve a woman's right to choose. A vote for George W. Bush is a vote to end this right.