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The irony in the Supreme Court’s decision allowing presidents to essentially be above the law while on the Fourth of July we celebrate freedom from tyranny is profound. The Declaration of Independence, at the heart of this national celebration says, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal…” This year sees us abandoning the Founders’ intent.
Toward that end, Donald Trump’s Supreme Court picks have accomplished what he demanded of them. I believe his intent was to move us from democracy to autocracy, from being served by our government to being servants of our government, and from being equal before the law to placing our leaders above the law.
Supreme Court justices take an oath of office in which they “…do solemnly swear that [they] will administer justice without respect to persons, and do equal right…” I think the majority of the judges seem to have disregarded that part of their oath. They also apparently decided that the truth is no longer important, modeling themselves after Trump. Justice Brett Kavanaugh has said, “No one is above the law.” Justice John Roberts has said, “I believe that no one is above the law, and that includes the president.” Justice Neil Gorsuch has said, “no man is above the law,” and Justice Amy Coney Barrett has said, “I would decide cases according to rule of law…” So much for honesty.
As we celebrate this Fourth of July, it’s important to decide whether to follow the Founders or follow the path to tyranny. Your decision will decide the fate of this nation.
Dana Williams
Belfast
