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Amy Coney Barrett: What to know about Supreme Court front-runner

  

Category:  News & Politics

Via:  kdmichigan  •  4 years ago  •  138 comments

By:   Johnny Magdaleno (The Indianapolis Star)

Amy Coney Barrett: What to know about Supreme Court front-runner
Amy Coney Barrett, an Indiana law professor and appeals court judge, is a candidate to replace U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

S E E D E D   C O N T E N T



Amy Coney Barrett of South Bend may soon become a household name.

The appeals court judge and University of Notre Dame law professor is expected to be one of President Donald Trump's top picks to replace Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who died Friday.

Barrett was on the shortlist to replace Justice Anthony Kennedy when he retired in 2018. Trump instead chose conservative judge Brett Kavanaugh.

Here's what you need to know about Barrett:

A dedicated mother of seven


Barrett, 48, was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. Her mother was a French teacher and her father was a lawyer. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame's law school at the top of her class, she worked as a law clerk for Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia and other federal court justices before returning to her alma mater as a law teacher.

Barrett has been described by colleagues and friends as a dedicated mom of seven children, two of whom were adopted from Haiti. Her youngest child has Down Syndrome.

In October 2017, with just an hour to go until she was voted into the 7th District Court of Appeals by the U.S. Senate, Barrett was outside trick-or-treating with her kids.

A lightning rod on abortion issue


Barrett's strong Catholic faith has placed her firmly in the eye of the national debate over who will replace Ginsburg, and what ideology the new judge will bring.

Her confirmation hearing in 2017 became a lightning rod for conservative outcry after California Sen. Dianne Feinstein questioned whether or not Barrett could separate her religious faith from her duty as a judge. "The dogma lives loudly within you," Feinstein said during the hearing. Barrett insisted that her professional beliefs and her religious beliefs would be kept separate.

Amy Coney Barrett:What she said about politics in courts

Three years later, Barrett's rulings have invited similar questions. But those who know her say it's unfair to narrowly define her. "It's been disorienting to see the smartest person I know reduced to how she might vote on [abortion], when she is so much more than that," Alex Blair, an attorney and one of Barrett's former University of Notre Dame students, told the South Bend Tribune.

Active in South Bend community


At her home in South Bend, Barrett is far from a polemic figure. She is an active community member who is highly regarded by students and staff at Notre Dame.

Barrett was named "Distinguished Professor of the Year" three separate years, a title decided by students. She is also active in the community, having held a board position at South Bend's Trinity School, and a spot on the St. Joseph Catholic Church Parish Pastoral Council.

Notre Dame President Rev. John Jenkins issued a statement on Saturday praising Barrett as a potential pick for the Supreme Court. "The same impressive intellect, character and temperament that made Professor Barrett a successful nominee for the U.S. Court of Appeals would serve her equally well as a nominee for the nation's highest court," said Jenkins.

Controversy surrounds religious group


Barrett is part of a Christian religious group called People of Praise that started in South Bend and now has a presence across the U.S. and in Canada and Jamaica. The group itself is not a church, but its members follow a movement called "charismatical renewal" and believe in speaking in tongues and miracle healings.

They have been scrutinized in the media for using the title "handmaiden" to describe their women leaders, and for exerting control over the personal lives of their members. Leaders of the group say they mostly function as a support network for their members and deny having any influence over the decisions of members in positions of power, like Barrett.

Stands on immigration, abortion


In her three years as a judge on the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals, Barrett has authored more than 100 opinions on cases that have come to her desk from across the Midwest.

In a case from June 2020 she was the sole voice on a three-judge panel that supported allowing federal enforcement of Trump's public charge immigration law in Illinois, which prevents immigrants from getting legal residency in the United States if they rely on public benefits like food stamps or housing vouchers.


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KDMichigan
Junior Participates
1  seeder  KDMichigan    4 years ago

Easy pick for MR Trump lets ram her thru.

She will do marvelous.

 
 
 
Vic Eldred
Professor Principal
1.1  Vic Eldred  replied to  KDMichigan @1    4 years ago

She has already been vetted and battle tested, yet I prefer Ms Lagoa!

 
 
 
The Magic 8 Ball
Masters Quiet
2  The Magic 8 Ball    4 years ago

how is the left going to smear her?   LOL

I can't wait to find out who amy raped 20yrs ago....   ha.

 

 
 
 
Sean Treacy
Professor Principal
2.1  Sean Treacy  replied to  The Magic 8 Ball @2    4 years ago

I’m sure there’s evidence in her eighth grade yearbook that she said fart.  Immediate disqualification.

 
 
 
The Magic 8 Ball
Masters Quiet
2.1.1  The Magic 8 Ball  replied to  Sean Treacy @2.1    4 years ago

LOL  :)

 
 
 
Jasper2529
Professor Quiet
2.1.2  Jasper2529  replied to  Sean Treacy @2.1    4 years ago
I’m sure there’s evidence in eighth grade yearbook that she said fart.  Immediate disqualification.

If not, maybe there's a pic of her "culturally appropriating" a Kente cloth like Pelosi and Schumer did in 2020. 

 
 
 
Vic Eldred
Professor Principal
2.1.3  Vic Eldred  replied to  Sean Treacy @2.1    4 years ago

You're right Sean, they'll go all the way back there, not only to see if she said fart, but to find out if she actually farted in public!

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
2.1.4  Tacos!  replied to  Sean Treacy @2.1    4 years ago
I’m sure there’s evidence in her eighth grade yearbook that she said fart.  Immediate disqualification.

Around this house, that would move her to the front of the line.

 
 
 
XXJefferson51
Senior Guide
2.2  XXJefferson51  replied to  The Magic 8 Ball @2    4 years ago

Which ever woman Trump chooses to fill the seat we will support her!  

 
 
 
Ed-NavDoc
Professor Quiet
2.3  Ed-NavDoc  replied to  The Magic 8 Ball @2    4 years ago

All the left needs to know to put every stop on her they can is that she is simply not the liberal left wing staunch Democrat they demand. Nothing else matters.

 
 
 
Vic Eldred
Professor Principal
2.3.1  Vic Eldred  replied to  Ed-NavDoc @2.3    4 years ago

They are out there!

Eiek-BJUYAA0ZwX?format=jpg&name=small


 
 
 
bugsy
Professor Participates
3  bugsy    4 years ago

[deleted]

 
 
 
Sean Treacy
Professor Principal
3.1  Sean Treacy  replied to  bugsy @3    4 years ago

She won't be a "real" woman because  she doesn't toe the line like liberals demand woman should. Just like white liberals decide who "real" blacks are.  

Identity politics are poison and many progressives have taken a fatal dose. 

 
 
 
bugsy
Professor Participates
3.1.1  bugsy  replied to  Sean Treacy @3.1    4 years ago

Well, I would like for any liberal to prove me wrong, but I think those on here are even scared to do so.

 
 
 
cjcold
Professor Quiet
3.1.2  cjcold  replied to  bugsy @3.1.1    4 years ago

[deleted]

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
3.1.3  Texan1211  replied to  cjcold @3.1.2    4 years ago
Actually, fear is a far right wing thing.

A verifiable link, please.

 
 
 
The Magic 8 Ball
Masters Quiet
3.2  The Magic 8 Ball  replied to  bugsy @3    4 years ago
[removed for context]

[deleted]

 
 
 
cjcold
Professor Quiet
3.2.1  cjcold  replied to  The Magic 8 Ball @3.2    4 years ago

removed for context

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
3.2.2  Texan1211  replied to  cjcold @3.2.1    4 years ago

Just another false claim perpetrated by those on the left.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
3.2.3  Texan1211  replied to  cjcold @3.2.1    4 years ago

Got a verifiable link for your claim?

 
 
 
The Magic 8 Ball
Masters Quiet
3.2.4  The Magic 8 Ball  replied to  cjcold @3.2.1    4 years ago

one problem... [deleted]

the democrats have been on the wrong side of every major civil rights movement.

but, the left has no problem saying they did it all....   LOL


At the request of Susan B. Anthony, Sen. A.A. Sargent, a Republican from California, introduced the 19th Amendment in 1878. Sargent’s amendment (also known as the Susan B. Anthony Amendment) was defeated four times by a Democrat-controlled Senate. When the Republican Party regained control of Congress in 1919, the Equal Suffrage Amendment finally passed the House in May of that year and in the Senate in June. 

 
 
 
The Magic 8 Ball
Masters Quiet
3.2.5  The Magic 8 Ball  replied to  The Magic 8 Ball @3.2.4    4 years ago
[problem   removed]

ok fine,

[deleted-  is that better?]

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
4  Tacos!    4 years ago

Maybe it's me, but it seems like the "front runner" often is not the person who gets picked.

 
 
 
Sean Treacy
Professor Principal
5  Sean Treacy    4 years ago

So it looks like it the religious bigots will be leading the charge. 

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
6  Tacos!    4 years ago

Other ideas to consider - especially because of the looming election - are Joan Larsen from the 6th Circuit, and Barbara Lagoa from the 11th Circuit. Both are from critical swing states, Larsen from Michigan, and Lagoa from Florida. Sometimes, a thing like that is enough to swing some votes. Also Lagoa is Hispanic, and that could also weigh in her favor.

 
 
 
Sean Treacy
Professor Principal
6.1  Sean Treacy  replied to  Tacos! @6    4 years ago

I don't think  Barrett.'s a lock by any means but I think the anti-Catholic backlash that's already brewing may help her candidacy, particularly as it resonates in the Midwest.  

Margaret Ryan is also a viable candidate, in addition to the candidates you mentioned. . 

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7  TᵢG    4 years ago
Barrett is part of a Christian religious group called People of Praise that started in South Bend and now has a presence across the U.S. and in Canada and Jamaica. The group itself is not a church, but its members follow a movement called "charismatical renewal" and believe in speaking in tongues and miracle healings.

Lovely.

 
 
 
devangelical
Professor Principal
7.1  devangelical  replied to  TᵢG @7    4 years ago
using the title "handmaiden" to describe their women leaders, and for exerting control over the personal lives of their members

this part piqued my interest as well. I wonder who got her off her back and helped her escape the kitchen.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.1  TᵢG  replied to  devangelical @7.1    4 years ago

An illustration of glossolalia.

One can only hope this SCotUS candidate does not actually believe this stuff.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.2  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.1    4 years ago
One can only hope this SCotUS candidate does not actually believe this stuff.

Are you in favor of a religious test for nominees to the Court?

 
 
 
JohnRussell
Professor Principal
7.1.3  JohnRussell  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.1    4 years ago

Barrett appears to be part of a group that is based on conservative Catholicism.  I think fundamentalists are much more prevalent in evangelical Protestants than in Catholics, but there are some. Steve Bannon belongs to a right wing Catholic group based in Italy. 

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.4  Texan1211  replied to  JohnRussell @7.1.3    4 years ago

Are you in favor of a religious test for SCOTUS nominees?

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.5  TᵢG  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.2    4 years ago

I am in favor of vetting out those who hold irrational beliefs such as glossolalia (note: I do not know she holds this belief, but the evidence is not encouraging).

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.6  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.5    4 years ago
I am in favor of vetting out those who hold irrational beliefs such as glossolalia (note: I do not know she holds this belief, but the evidence is not encouraging).

To me, that sounds exactly like someone pushing for a religious test.... without actually coming out and saying exactly that.

Can you point to any of her decisions being overturned by higher courts that would lead you to believe her religious beliefs will be the deciding factor for her decisions?

 
 
 
Vic Eldred
Professor Principal
7.1.7  Vic Eldred  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.5    4 years ago
glossolalia

I believe it's called the Ginsburg rule. Usually when the question of abortion arises, they go incoherent!

 
 
 
Vic Eldred
Professor Principal
7.1.8  Vic Eldred  replied to  JohnRussell @7.1.3    4 years ago

JFK was guilty too/s

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.9  TᵢG  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.6    4 years ago
To me, that sounds exactly like someone pushing for a religious test.

I suggest you read my answer instead of trying to reframe it to meet your desires.    I am not in favor of a religious test.   First of all, 'Tex', that would eliminate likely every member of the SCotUS.   Second, not all religious beliefs are clearly irrational such as glossolalia.

Take your strawman elsewhere.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.10  TᵢG  replied to  Vic Eldred @7.1.7    4 years ago
Usually when the question of abortion arises, they go incoherent!

What are you talking about?  Who is 'they'?

 
 
 
devangelical
Professor Principal
7.1.12  devangelical  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.4    4 years ago

for self professed religious nuts, I certainly am. a metal chair, 8 feet of rope, and a 500 gallon water tank. if they float, they were destined by god to be seated on the SCOTUS.

 
 
 
Vic Eldred
Professor Principal
7.1.13  Vic Eldred  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.10    4 years ago

The nominees, of course!

When one has to explain a simple joke it kind of kills it.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.14  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.9    4 years ago
I suggest you read my answer instead of trying to reframe it to meet your desires.  

I respectfully suggest you keep your condescension to yourself.

I asked questions. I didn't frame anything, I went directly by what you stated after I asked.

I am not in favor of a religious test.

That isn't consistent with "I am in favor of vetting out those who hold irrational beliefs such as glossolalia".

Are you the person who gets to decide what is irrational regarding religious beliefs? If not you, who then? Based on what criteria?

First of all, 'Tex', that would eliminate likely every member of the SCotUS.   Second, not all religious beliefs are clearly irrational such as glossolalia.

Again, are you the sole arbiter of what is irrational in regards to religious beliefs?

If not you, who, and based on what criteria?

Take your strawman elsewhere.

Not a strawman, as you well know, or should, anyways.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.15  Texan1211  replied to  devangelical @7.1.12    4 years ago

Based on what I have seen in your comments, the fact that you would want a religious test isn't surprising to me.

Sad.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.16  Texan1211  replied to    4 years ago
Opinion on Roe vs. Wade has been a litmus test for any nominee since its' passage. A more cogent question would be where they stand in adherence to the acceptance of settled law and what new evidence would be required to hear, much less reverse any previous determinations. 

Shouldn't the litmus test on Roe be actual rulings from the nominees is cases involving it? Do we expect SCOTUS members to rule on law or personal religious beliefs?

Can anyone name any recent Court cases in which a Justice ruled based solely on their religious beliefs?

 
 
 
Vic Eldred
Professor Principal
7.1.17  Vic Eldred  replied to    4 years ago
A more cogent question would be where any nominee stands in adherence to the acceptance of settled law and what new evidence would be required to hear, much less reverse any previous determinations. 

Should that apply to Plessy v. Ferguson?  I'm just trying to get a sense of how much you believe in Judges accepting settled law.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.18  TᵢG  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.14    4 years ago
I went directly by what you stated after I asked.

No you tried to reframe my answer into a religious test.

And you continue to do this in spite of a crystal clear answer from me.

Take your trolling comments elsewhere.  

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.19  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.18    4 years ago
No you tried to reframe my answer into a religious test.

I certainly did no such thing.

And you continue to do this in spite of a crystal clear answer from me.

I explained quite clearly what I thought of your conflicting comments----

"I am in favor of vetting out those who hold irrational beliefs such as glossolalia" "I am not in favor of a religious test. "

I even pointed out the inconsistency in such statements in post #7.1.14

Take your trolling comments elsewhere.  

I am sorry tough questions relate to trolling to you.

Take your condescending remarks elsewhere.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.20  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.18    4 years ago

Do you want to be the one who decides what religious beliefs are too irrational, or would you prefer a commission of some sorts [deleted]

 
 
 
devangelical
Professor Principal
7.1.21  devangelical  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.1    4 years ago

I put his hilarious religious gibberish thru google translator and got back "rock and rolled torched my lame career, then I ended up endorsing a cult leader for POTUS and selling wealthy old WASP's walk in bathtubs".

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.22  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.5    4 years ago
I am in favor of vetting out those who hold irrational beliefs

That shouldn't matter unless there is evidence the judge has been setting aside the law and making judgments based on those beliefs. Even then, it would have to be something beyond the bounds of normal judicial discretion. In which case they probably shouldn't be a judge now, much less sit on the Supreme Court in the future. Her record should be all the vetting anyone requires.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.23  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.22    4 years ago

How about a candidate justice who believes the Earth is flat?   Should we set that aside as long as there is no evidence this has affected past decisions?

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.24  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.23    4 years ago
How about a candidate justice who believes the Earth is flat?   Should we set that aside as long as there is no evidence this has affected past decisions?

Yes.

Unless you can demonstrate that the judge's beliefs have been leveraged to create injustice, there is no reason to disqualify her over it. She is free to believe whatever she likes. It is improper to deny her a position because of her beliefs.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.25  Texan1211  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.22    4 years ago

Apparently, some want to "vet" out people holding certain religious beliefs, but that isn't any kind of religious test, no-siree-bob!

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.26  Tacos!  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.25    4 years ago

That's exactly what a religious test is. I understand people don't want it to be called that because they know it's wrong, but it is what it is. It's like "I'm not racist/sexist/homophobic/islamophobic but . . . " and then they go on to say something that is one of those things. Here we have (and I'm paraphrasing), "I don't believe in religious tests, but a candidate should be disqualified because of her beliefs." It's the same.

 
 
 
Perrie Halpern R.A.
Professor Principal
7.1.27  Perrie Halpern R.A.  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.26    4 years ago

That is not a "religious test". That is a reality check. If the woman believed the Wizard of Oz was god, I would be concerned to. 

And while we are having this discussion, where do you stand on Scientologists become justices?

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.28  Tacos!  replied to  Perrie Halpern R.A. @7.1.27    4 years ago

I have said pretty clearly what I think. When you start disqualifying people because of their beliefs, you are using a religious test. What matters is how judges apply the law, not what they personally believe. Your "reality check" is a religious test.

 
 
 
devangelical
Professor Principal
7.1.29  devangelical  replied to  Perrie Halpern R.A. @7.1.27    4 years ago
where do you stand on Scientologists become justices?

only on their own personal planets ...

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.30  Texan1211  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.26    4 years ago
That's exactly what a religious test is. I understand people don't want it to becalledthat because they know it's wrong, but it is what it is. It's like "I'm not racist/sexist/homophobic/islamophobic but . . . " and then they go on to say something that is one of those things. Here we have (and I'm paraphrasing), "I don't believe in religious tests, but a candidate should be disqualified because of her beliefs." It's the same.

Bingo--my points exactly.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.31  Texan1211  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.26    4 years ago
That's exactly what a religious test is. I understand people don't want it to be called that because they know it's wrong, but it is what it is. It's like "I'm not racist/sexist/homophobic/islamophobic but . . . " and then they go on to say something that is one of those things. Here we have (and I'm paraphrasing), "I don't believe in religious tests, but a candidate should be disqualified because of her beliefs." It's the same.

No one wants to answer these simple questions, either.

Wonder why?

1. Who decides what is too irrational of a religious belief?

2. What is the criteria based on for that?

3. What is the difference from wanting to exclude someone based solely on their religious beliefs and a religious test? (And I mean real, effective differences--not parsing of words)

 
 
 
Perrie Halpern R.A.
Professor Principal
7.1.32  Perrie Halpern R.A.  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.28    4 years ago

So you are fine with Scientologists, yes or no.

 
 
 
Perrie Halpern R.A.
Professor Principal
7.1.33  Perrie Halpern R.A.  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.30    4 years ago

So you are fine with Scientologists, yes or no.

 
 
 
Perrie Halpern R.A.
Professor Principal
7.1.34  Perrie Halpern R.A.  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.28    4 years ago
Your "reality check" is a religious test.

No, it's a saintiy test. Do you believe that insane people should be on the court?

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.35  Texan1211  replied to  Perrie Halpern R.A. @7.1.34    4 years ago

Do you think Amy Coney Barrett is insane based solely on what she believes religiously? 

It can be fancied up with pretty terms, but a religious test is a religious test.

And they are illegal.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.36  Texan1211  replied to  Perrie Halpern R.A. @7.1.33    4 years ago
So you are fine with Scientologists, yes or no.

Yes. I am against religious tests, no matter what they are currently being called.

Please do tell me who gets to decide which religious beliefs are unacceptable, is it just one person or a committee of like minded people?

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.37  Texan1211  replied to  Perrie Halpern R.A. @7.1.33    4 years ago

I answered you, now please answer these:

1. Who decides what is too irrational of a religious belief?

2. What is the criteria based on for that?

3. What is the difference from wanting to exclude someone based solely on their religious beliefs and a religious test? (And I mean real, effective differences--not parsing of words)

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.38  Tacos!  replied to  Perrie Halpern R.A. @7.1.32    4 years ago

Yes. How many ways do I need to say it? Beliefs are irrelevant. What matters is how a judge applies the law.

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.39  Tacos!  replied to  Perrie Halpern R.A. @7.1.34    4 years ago

You are welcome to present evidence of an examination by a trained mental health expert evaluating the candidate's sanity. I think you will be disappointed, though.

 
 
 
Sean Treacy
Professor Principal
7.1.40  Sean Treacy  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.9    4 years ago

I am not in favor of a religious test.

yet you you just explicitly proposed one.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.41  TᵢG  replied to  Sean Treacy @7.1.40    4 years ago

The fact that these beliefs are held by a religious group is simply a coincidence.   I did not write anything about her being a Catholic nor did I even imply that there should be a religious test.    I explicitly focused on the irrational belief of glossolalia (and miracle healing).

Further, I have already addressed this.   I have stated that I am not proposing a religious test but would vet a SCotUS regarding irrational beliefs such as glossolalia , flat-Earth, aliens on Earth taking human form, etc.

The question was asked and answered yet a select group here is driven to put words in my mouth.   I am okay with resolving ambiguity.   But when the ambiguity of language is resolved and one continues to try to push the same false representation of an author's intent, that is pure intellectual dishonesty.

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.42  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.41    4 years ago

I understand that you don't want your idea to be thought of as a religious test, but that is exactly what it is. Until you are willing to take your focus off of her beliefs and instead look at her judicial record, you are engaging in a religious test.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.43  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.24    4 years ago
Yes.

I disagree.   A judge —especially a SCotUS justice— who is known to believe the Earth is flat (and other clearly irrational beliefs) should be excluded from consideration during the vetting process.   In fact, such a person should never be nominated for a public position of power.

It is improper to deny her a position because of her beliefs.

I agree with this statement, but you are now generalizing to beliefs in general when I am explicitly speaking of clearly irrational beliefs.  

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.44  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.28    4 years ago
I have said pretty clearly what I think. When you start disqualifying people because of their beliefs, you are using a religious test. What matters is how judges apply the law, not what they personally believe. Your "reality check" is a religious test.

Again you are translating a specific belief to beliefs in general.   That is misrepresenting what I wrote (and it is moving the goalposts).  This is not about disqualifying people for beliefs in general but rather specific clearly irrational beliefs.   You might think it perfectly fine to seat a justice who believes the Earth is flat but I find that to be entirely irresponsible.

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.45  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.43    4 years ago
A judge —especially a SCotUS justice— who is known to believe the Earth is flat (and other clearly irrational beliefs) should be excluded from consideration during the vetting process.   In fact, such a person should never be nominated for a public position of power.

So you exclude that person because of her beliefs, not her judicial performance. That is a religious test. Period.

you are now generalizing to beliefs in general 

No, beliefs is general would include things like "mac n cheese is the best comfort food" or "the designated hitter is an abomination." You are specifically talking about religious beliefs. People who believe in flat earth or speaking in tongues cite to the Bible to support their beliefs. Those beliefs are clearly religious. 

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.46  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.42    4 years ago
I understand that you don't want your idea to be thought of as a religious test, but that is exactly what it is. Until you are willing to take your focus off of her beliefs and instead look at her judicial record, you are engaging in a religious test.

Why, because it happens to be a religious belief?

Looks like you want to exclude all irrational beliefs from scrutiny if they happen to be religious.    That is irresponsible.   Someone who thinks aliens possess human beings or believes that people speaking gibberish are 'speaking in tongues' should not have a position of judgment over others.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.47  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.45    4 years ago
So you exclude that person because of her beliefs, not her judicial performance. That is a religious test. Period.

And if the belief were of alien possession or flat Earth, would you deem those religious beliefs too?

No, beliefs is general would include things like "mac n cheese is the best comfort food" ...

Give me a break.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.48  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.41    4 years ago

Once again, who decides what is irrational? You? What is the criteria to qualify as irrational?

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.49  TᵢG  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.48    4 years ago
Once again, who decides what is irrational? You?

Those doing the vetting.    Read what I wrote:

TiG@7.1.5I am in favor of vetting out those who hold irrational beliefs such as glossolalia (note: I do not know she holds this belief, but the evidence is not encouraging).

Who do you think would do the vetting of a SCotUS justice?   The vetting is done by the PotUS and his supporting nomination staff and then finally by the Senate.

Amazing you do not know how this works.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.50  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.49    4 years ago

Amazing you do not know how this works.

[deleted]

Who do you think would do the vetting of a SCotUS justice?   The vetting is done by the PotUS and his supporting nomination staff and then finally by the Senate.

Hopefully at least THEY will know that religious tests are illegal and refuse to participate in such nonsense.

A religious test is  a religious test is a religious test. No matter how it is attempted to be hidden or called something other than what it is,

 
 
 
Sean Treacy
Professor Principal
7.1.51  Sean Treacy  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.41    4 years ago

intent, that is pure intellectual dishonesty.

It’s pure intellectual dishonesty to claim you don’t believe in religious tests, but then turn around and say anyone with said  religious belief can’t be a judge.  You can’t square that circle no matter how indignant you get.  

its like saying of course Christians can serve as judges, but anyone who believes that Christ rose from the dead must be barred from the bench  for having irrational beliefs. 

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.52  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.44    4 years ago
You might think it perfectly fine to seat a justice who believes the Earth is flat but I find that to be entirely irresponsible.

You're entitled to your opinion, but that is a religious test.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.53  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.49    4 years ago
Who do you think would do the vetting of a SCotUS justice?   The vetting is done by the PotUS and his supporting nomination staff and then finally by the Senate.

what criteria do you propose to use to weed out the religious people you don't like?

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.54  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.46    4 years ago
Why, because it happens to be a religious belief?

Yes. That's literally a religious test.

Looks like you want to exclude all irrational beliefs from scrutiny if they happen to be religious.    That is irresponsible.

No, that's the Constitution.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.55  Texan1211  replied to  Sean Treacy @7.1.51    4 years ago

[deleted]

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.56  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.47    4 years ago
And if the belief were of alien possession or flat Earth, would you deem those religious beliefs too?

I am not deeming anything to be a religious belief. The person who believes it will let us know if it is a religious belief or not.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.57  TᵢG  replied to  Sean Treacy @7.1.51    4 years ago
It’s pure intellectual dishonesty to claim you don’t believe in religious tests, ...

Where did I ever say I support religious tests?  

... but then turn around and say anyone with said  religious belief can’t be a judge.

You keep characterizing my objection as 'religious' when I have stated it is due to being 'irrational'.

Given I have been clear and have offered examples of clearly non-religious but irrational beliefs your continued refusal to acknowledge what I wrote and instead reframe it is intellectual dishonesty.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.58  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.56    4 years ago
I am not deeming anything to be a religious belief. The person who believes it will let us know if it is a religious belief or not.

So if a justice who believed in alien possession or flat Earth or ... deemed their belief to be religious, you would not allow them to vetted based on those beliefs??

Right.   jrSmiley_84_smiley_image.gif

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.59  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.58    4 years ago
So if a justice who believed in alien possession or flat Earth or ... deemed their belief to be religious, you would not allow them to vetted based on those beliefs?? Right.   

What part of 

"no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States"

is unclear for you?

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.60  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.59    4 years ago

Your argument would allow a candidate to claim that their belief that they were abducted by aliens who are incrementally inhabiting the bodies of Earthlings is religious and therefore disallowed as a negative during vetting / confirmation.

What part of the absurdity is unclear to you?

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.61  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.60    4 years ago
What part of the absurdity is unclear to you?

The part where you think we should look at that instead of (or even in addition to) the judicial record. I find that absurd. You want to ignore the Constitution and basic logic. If this person has been a good judge, who gives a rip what they privately believe about the world?

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.62  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.61    4 years ago

You would disallow anyone to vote against a SCotUS candidate for cause on belief in unicorns, Santa Claus and alien possession if the candidate deems these to be religious beliefs??

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.63  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.62    4 years ago

Keep trying, if you must TiG, but the answer will be the same. 

"no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States"

You didn't answer my question, so I will post it again:

If this person has been a good judge, who gives a rip what they privately believe about the world?

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.65  Texan1211  replied to    4 years ago

well, I am fine with leaving religion out of it. can you convince the ones pushing a religious test to do the same?

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.66  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.63    4 years ago
Keep trying, if you must TiG, but the answer will be the same. 

Yeah, you will keep deflecting from my question.

And I have answered your question repeatedly.   Here we go again:

If this person has been a good judge, who gives a rip what they privately believe about the world?

Well everyone should be concerned if a judge holds clearly irrational beliefs.   Again, I find it fascinating that you would actually disallow a vote against a judge for cause because the judge believes something like:

  • aliens (ET) are possessing human bodies in the United States
  • the planet is flat
  • the Earth is the center of the universe
  • sacrifices can prevent volcanic eruptions
  • slavery is perfectly natural and good
  • women should be dominated by men
  • s/he was abducted by aliens (ET) who inserted a probe in the body to monitor activity
  • ....

As long as the judge declares these beliefs as 'religious'.

Any irrational belief, no matter how extreme, is just fine with you if the person holding the belief says: 'Not so fast, I consider these religious beliefs'.  

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.67  TᵢG  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.65    4 years ago

Leave religion out of it.   Is it valid to vote against a justice for cause based on the justice holding an irrational belief such as any listed @7.1.66?

 
 
 
Sean Treacy
Professor Principal
7.1.68  Sean Treacy  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.57    4 years ago
Where did I ever say I support religious tests?  

When you explicitly adopted one by claiming "I am in favor of vetting out those who hold irrational beliefs such as glossolia." That's a textbook religious test. You are premising their ability to serve as a judge on their religious belief. It's truly bizarre you won't admit what's obvious. Words have meanings that you can't alter by simple declarations.  A cat remains a cat even if you claim it's not a cat, but a flower.  That's what you are doing. It's like watching someone declare they aren't a racist, make extremely racist statements, and then say, well, I'm not a racist because I said I'm not a racist.  It's how juveniles argue. 

 keep characterizing my objection as 'religious' when I have stated it is due to being 'irrational'.

Because it's a textbook religious test. Under your "standard," every believer would be disqualified, because they believe irrational things. Claiming it's an "irrationality test" rather than a religious test misses the point entirely. By applying an "irrationality" test to someone's religious beliefs, you've created a religious test. Game, set, match. Discussion over. 

It doesn't matter what excuse you use or what you call it, if you are subjecting someone's religious beliefs to any sort of  test to see if they can serve as a judge, you are applying a religious test. It doesn't get anymore straightforward than that. 

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.69  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.66    4 years ago
Yeah, you will keep deflecting from my question.

That’s absurd. I haven’t deflected from anything. I have given you the same answer half a dozen times by now. I’ll tell you again:

"no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States"

Well everyone should be concerned if a judge holds clearly irrational beliefs

1) Why? If it has no impact on their job performance, why should anyone care?

2) Who are you to decide what an irrational belief is?

3) Where in the Constitution does it allow for discrimination in job placement based on perceived private irrational beliefs?

Any irrational belief, no matter how extreme, is just fine with you if the person holding the belief says: 'Not so fast, I consider these religious beliefs'.  

What you don’t seem to appreciate is that the Founders understood all of this already. Among themselves, Puritans, Catholics, Quakers, and so on, already thought anyone extreme who didn’t believe as they did. You haven’t stumbled onto something they failed to consider. They put this clause in the Constitution because they knew that judging people based on their religious beliefs instead of their performance would lead to problems. War, even.

What amazes me is that people will argue for a strict separation between church and state. They will say religion should not be a part of government decisions. And then these same people will - verrrry hypocritically - declare that they can judge someone fit for a government position based on their religious beliefs.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.70  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.67    4 years ago

I would live to leave relig8 and religious testing out of it.

no need to swap horses midstream, the discussion was about religious beliefs, and how some want to impose a test because they don't agree with it.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.71  Texan1211  replied to    4 years ago

I understand your point. but that isn't really the discussion

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.72  Texan1211  replied to  Sean Treacy @7.1.68    4 years ago

it IS a religious test, no matter the futile denials.

If it walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, looks like a duck, it IS a duck

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.73  Texan1211  replied to  Sean Treacy @7.1.51    4 years ago

I agree wholeheartedly!

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.74  TᵢG  replied to  Sean Treacy @7.1.68    4 years ago
When you explicitly adopted one by claiming "I am in favor of vetting out those who hold irrational beliefs such as glossolia." That's a textbook religious test.

How could you possibly not understand that I have objected to this due to irrationality, not because it is religious?   Answer:  I am confident that you do understand and are instead making a strawman argument.

I have repeatedly and purposely offered non-religious examples of irrational belief for emphasis and stated explicitly that the religious aspect is simply coincidental.   Yet you continue to pretend otherwise.

Note also that I raised no objection to this justice on the basis of her Catholic faith and upfront clarified that such would be ridiculous as it would exclude virtually all candidates.  

Under your "standard," every believer would be disqualified, because they believe irrational things.

Yeah, no kidding.   If only I had stated that upfront then maybe my position would be clear to you.   Well, oddly enough, I did state that upfront @7.1.9:

TiG @7.1.9I am not in favor of a religious test.   First of all, 'Tex', that would eliminate likely every member of the SCotUS.   Second, not all religious beliefs are clearly irrational such as glossolalia.

But it is much easier to ignore what people write and just invent a strawman to argue.   Not impressive and intellectually dishonest.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.75  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.69    4 years ago
"no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States"

And you interpret this to mean that any belief held by a candidate can be deemed —by the candidate— to be a religious belief and that will prevent anyone voting for cause against that candidate due to said belief.

So I posted this which you ignored:

TiG @7.1.66

Well everyone should be concerned if a judge holds clearly irrational beliefs.   Again, I find it fascinating that you would actually disallow a vote against a judge for cause because the judge believes something like:

  • aliens (ET) are possessing human bodies in the United States
  • the planet is flat
  • the Earth is the center of the universe
  • sacrifices can prevent volcanic eruptions
  • slavery is perfectly natural and good
  • women should be dominated by men
  • s/he was abducted by aliens (ET) who inserted a probe in the body to monitor activity
  • ....

As long as the judge declares these beliefs as 'religious'.

Any irrational belief, no matter how extreme, is just fine with you if the person holding the belief says: 'Not so fast, I consider these religious beliefs'.  

If a candidate held ALL of the above beliefs and declared them all to be religious beliefs, would you disallow a vote against this candidate for cause due to holding these beliefs?

Illustrate just how far you are willing to go into the absurd.

And then these same people will - verrrry hypocritically - declare that they can judge someone fit for a government position based on their religious beliefs.

I find it incredible how some will resort to such blatant intellectual dishonesty.   Flat out misrepresentation of what I wrote coupled with ignoring specific statements to the contrary.

Throughout this entire thread I have stated and illustrated that my objection is due to irrationality, not to religious belief.   No way on the planet that you have missed this.   Yet here you are telling me that I have objected on religious grounds when I have stated that I am objecting on the grounds of irrationality.   

It would be different had I objected due to the fact that she believes in the Trinity or that she believes the Pope has a special relationship with God.   Those are common religious beliefs (of Catholics).   But I did not.  I objected to the irrational belief that people can speak in tongues and would have objected the same way if she believed that slavery is a fine institution or that the Earth is the center of the universe.   It does not matter if these are religious beliefs or not, these listed examples are all entirely irrational and I would trust that the vetting process would consider that, especially for a supreme court justice.

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.76  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.75    4 years ago
So I posted this which you ignored:

I didn't ignore it. You have asked about these issues multiple times and I have answered them the same way every time.

I find it incredible how some will resort to such blatant intellectual dishonesty.

This passive aggressive method you have of calling people liars is cowardly and insulting. It does nothing for your argument but hurt it. Resorting to this kind of personal attack introduces a toxic element into the discussion and you should know better.

Flat out misrepresentation of what I wrote

I have an opinion about what you wrote, and I am entitled to that opinion. Misrepresentation is lying, and I have not done that.

Throughout this entire thread I have stated and illustrated that my objection is due to irrationality, not to religious belief.

And yet, you are talking about someone's religious beliefs, so your attempt at a distinction is meaningless.

However you think you want to parse or define someone's beliefs, if you want respect for rational decision-making, you should be able to demonstrate how this candidate's beliefs have produced problematic judicial results. If there is anything irrational going on here, it is your insistence that something about this woman's beliefs might make her a bad choice to be on the Supreme Court. Simply saying it's "clear" isn't enough.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.77  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.76    4 years ago
I have answered them the same way every time.

You keep ignoring my list:

  • aliens (ET) are possessing human bodies in the United States
  • the planet is flat
  • the Earth is the center of the universe
  • sacrifices can prevent volcanic eruptions
  • slavery is perfectly natural and good
  • women should be dominated by men
  • s/he was abducted by aliens (ET) who inserted a probe in the body to monitor activity
  • ....

If a candidate held ALL of the above, would you (if you were in a position to do so) actually vote for such a candidate to be a justice of the SCotUS?

This passive aggressive method...

Nothing passive about it; I am being quite candid.   You made a blatantly dishonest claim.   No way you could not know that my objection is due to irrationality and not religion.   To ignore my comments and then declare my position to be one based on religious grounds is blatant intellectual dishonesty.  

I have an opinion about what you wrote, and I am entitled to that opinion. Misrepresentation is lying, and I have not done that.

You can have any opinion you want, but you have claimed that I objected on religious grounds.   Demonstrably false.   I have told you my objection is due to irrationality and have provided very clear examples to illustrate my thought process.   Stating I object on religious grounds is a complete misrepresentation of what I have written.   Perfect example of intellectual dishonesty.


So weigh in.   If the candidate held ALL of the above irrational beliefs (in red) would you (if you were in a position to do so) vote for such a candidate to be a justice of the SCotUS?

 
 
 
Dismayed Patriot
Professor Quiet
7.1.78  Dismayed Patriot  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.75    4 years ago
"no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States"

This is simply stating that a persons religion itself should not be used as a test of ones eligibility. As for the beliefs a person may have based on their religion they are certainly acceptable to debate as to the nominees eligibility.

If a judge, during the vetting, admits that they believe biblical law should supersede the US constitution, then they should be immediately rejected as their oath demands.

"I, ________, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter. So help me God."

If they admit that the bible takes precedence over the constitution then their oath would be a total lie.

What if we have a potential justice whose religious beliefs are that whites are superior and should be treated as such?

What if we have a potential justice whose religious beliefs are that blacks are cursed by God and are the "sons of Cain" and thus should be treated as servants or slaves?

What if we have a potential justice whose religious beliefs are that the death penalty should be used for any offense the bible deems a sin such as eating shellfish or wearing clothes made of mixed fabrics?

What if we have a potential justice whose religious beliefs are that disobedient children should be stoned to death?

What if we have a potential justice whose religious beliefs are that women are inferior to men or that a husband has the right to hit or rape their wives?

What if we have a potential justice whose religious beliefs are that women should be forced to wear a hijab and long dresses?

Taking all of those beliefs into consideration when making the decision to confirm a justice is absolutely necessary, it just doesn't matter what religion they subscribe to.

So the nominee can be atheist, Christian, Muslim, Hindu or any other religion, that shouldn't matter. It's whether their beliefs based on that religion would supersede or conflict with the constitution that should be examined and questioned. As long as they promise to follow the constitution and realize they're being asked to judge all kinds of peoples from all kinds of religions and backgrounds and that it would be inappropriate to force their personal beliefs on others through the courts, then there shouldn't be a problem.

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.79  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.77    4 years ago
You keep ignoring my list:

Your list is not relevant. This has been explained to you over and over.

Nothing passive about it; I am being quite candid

No, you know you are calling people liars. That is supposed to be against CoC (not to mention simple good manners), but you hide it behind euphemisms like “intellectual dishonesty” and “misrepresentation” so you get away with it. You could just agree to disagree, but instead you have to attack the character of people who disagree with you. And now I anticipate you will whine about meta rather than address the substance of the criticism.

Furthermore, you continue to ignore these points, which have been put to you repeatedly by me and others:

1) You are talking about someone's religious beliefs, so your attempt at a distinction is meaningless.

2) You should be able to demonstrate how this candidate's beliefs have produced problematic judicial results.

Until you can address these issues, you are just trying to justify discrimination and character assassination.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.80  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.79    4 years ago
Your list is not relevant.

Yeah, I understand why you refuse to answer the question.

No, you know you are calling people liars.

Wrong.   If you make an intellectually dishonest statement — especially one that is blatantly so — I will call you out on it.    There is a clear difference between noting demonstrable and blatant intellectual dishonesty and calling someone a liar.  

When I state repeatedly that my comment is regarding irrational beliefs regardless of whether these are religious or not and you come back and claim that I object on religious grounds (and then deem me hypocritical) then that is complete misrepresentation of what I have written.   And since what I have written is so obvious at this point, there is no way you could have missed it.  

Furthermore, you continue to ignore these points, ...

False yet again.   You are just ignoring my answer.    As you are ignoring my question:

If the candidate held ALL of these irrational beliefs:

  • aliens (ET) are possessing human bodies in the United States
  • the planet is flat
  • the Earth is the center of the universe
  • sacrifices can prevent volcanic eruptions
  • slavery is perfectly natural and good
  • women should be dominated by men
  • s/he was abducted by aliens (ET) who inserted a probe in the body to monitor activity
  • ....

... would you (if you were in a position to do so) vote for such a candidate to be a justice of the SCotUS?

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.81  TᵢG  replied to  Dismayed Patriot @7.1.78    4 years ago
This is simply stating that a persons religion itself should not be used as a test of ones eligibility. As for the beliefs a person may have based on their religion they are certainly acceptable to debate as to the nominees eligibility.

I agree.  Clearly.  

If someone holds an irrational belief, be it religious or otherwise, that factor is certainly valid for consideration by those who would vet and by those who would confirm a justice for the SCotUS.

It is fascinating watching this intellectually dishonest display taking place in this thread.   Some ignore what is written and go pure strawman.   No matter how many times they are corrected, they continue to pretend they know my position better than I do.  

And, of course, every probative question is ignored as 'irrelevant'.    Sure, if truth is not the objective, dismiss that which illustrates one is wrong.    jrSmiley_84_smiley_image.gif

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.82  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.81    4 years ago

religious tests remain illegal

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.83  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.80    4 years ago
Yeah, I understand why you refuse to answer the question.

No, I did answer it. You just don't like the answer. For the umpteenth time, your list is not relevant to an evaluation of a Supreme Court justice. I have answered this over and over and over. Maybe if I accuse you of some kind of dishonesty, you'll come around to understanding it.

There is a clear difference between noting demonstrable and blatant intellectual dishonesty and calling someone a liar.

Well then! If it's "clear" I guess I have no business having an opposing opinion. I don't suppose you'd care to explain the difference?

When I state repeatedly that my comment is regarding irrational beliefs regardless of whether these are religious or not and you come back and claim that I object on religious grounds

Then maybe it's time you declare and admit that you are changing the subject or moving the goalposts. Because this whole seed and the related exchange began with a discussion of Amy Coney Barrett's religious beliefs and how they made her unfit to be a justice. Are you saying you no longer want to talk about her and her beliefs?

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.84  Texan1211  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.83    4 years ago

I think we used to call that "switching horses in midstream"

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.85  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.83    4 years ago

Maybe it is time that you read what I wrote upfront.   My subsequent comments have been entirely consistent with what I wrote here:

Seed:   Barrett is part of a Christian religious group called People of Praise that started in South Bend and now has a presence across the U.S. and in Canada and Jamaica. The group itself is not a church, but its members follow a movement called "charismatical renewal" and believe in speaking in tongues and miracle healings.
TiG @7 ☞ Lovely.
TiG @7.1.2 An illustration of glossolalia.    One can only hope this SCotUS candidate does not actually believe this stuff.
TiG @7.1.5 I am in favor of vetting out those who hold irrational beliefs such as glossolalia (note: I do not know she holds this belief, but the evidence is not encouraging).
TiG @7.1.9 I suggest you read my answer instead of trying to reframe it to meet your desires.    I am not in favor of a religious test.   First of all, 'Tex', that would eliminate likely every member of the SCotUS.   Second, not all religious beliefs are clearly irrational such as glossolalia.

And the rest of the thread consists of intellectually dishonest claims that I favor a religious test for the SCotUS and other invented nonsense coupled with the typical deflection tactics of those who are just trying to be obnoxious.

Nowhere do I suggest a religious test, ever.   In fact, I have never suggested a religious test for any office or position.   Do you know how I know this?   Because I have never held that position.   A religious test is unconstitutional, irrelevant, impractical and I see no way it could even be produced in an objective fashion.

But I certainly would be in favor of disqualifying a candidate who holds grossly irrational views.   Such as:

  • aliens (ET) are possessing human bodies in the United States
  • the planet is flat
  • the Earth is the center of the universe
  • sacrifices can prevent volcanic eruptions
  • slavery is perfectly natural and good
  • women should be dominated by men
  • s/he was abducted by aliens (ET) who inserted a probe in the body to monitor activity
  • ....

Unlike you who apparently would vote for a candidate who holds ALL of the above views, I want a candidate who will operate rationally and holding a view that aliens are possessing human bodies brings into heavy doubt the rationality of the individual.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.86  TᵢG  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.82    4 years ago

So I guess you missed the part @7.1.9 where I explain to you that I am not in favor of religious tests.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.87  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.86    4 years ago

I have read your posts and your denials.

but it doesn't jibe with this:

"I am in favor of vetting out those who hold irrational beliefs such as glossolalia ,"

 
 
 
Dismayed Patriot
Professor Quiet
7.1.88  Dismayed Patriot  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.82    4 years ago
religious tests remain illegal

Nothing TiG said was a "religious test".

I would be fine with a Muslim justice, but I'd want to make sure that they did not believe that the Koran supersedes the constitution. I would oppose them if they openly admitted that their faith was more important than established law and that when ruling on laws they would always side with their Muslim beliefs. That is not a religious test, I don't care that they are Muslim as long as they can separate their personal faith and follow the constitution in their rulings instead of their religious belief that Christians are infidels and there shouldn't be laws against murdering them.

"Religious test" simply means your brand of faith should not matter when it comes to confirmation, it doesn't mean that those vetting them can't ask specific policy questions that touch on religious beliefs such as abortion, the death penalty, racial supremacy, spousal rape, religious freedom, wife beaters, child abuse and more. If they hold an irrational belief like disobedient children should be stoned to death or that spousal rape is okay because the husband is the head of the household, then there should be no problem blocking such a nominee based on those irrational beliefs.

This isn't hard to understand, but you seem to have chosen to be intentionally obtuse on this point.

 
 
 
GregTx
PhD Guide
7.1.89  GregTx  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.85    4 years ago

If the ideal is equality, caveats ain't allowed.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.90  Texan1211  replied to  Dismayed Patriot @7.1.88    4 years ago

look, I know what he stated and what I read.

my statement stands.

save the personal insults for someone else.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.91  TᵢG  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.87    4 years ago

Then your ‘jibe’ is broken.  

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.92  TᵢG  replied to  GregTx @7.1.89    4 years ago

Would you vote for a justice candidate who believed everything on the list I provided?

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.93  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.91    4 years ago

mope, I checked.

it is in perfect working order

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.94  TᵢG  replied to  Texan1211 @7.1.90    4 years ago
look, I know what he stated and what I read.

Now that I believe.   No way could you not understand my position after my upfront reply to you @7.1.9.   That means your comments claiming I am for a religious test are blatant, demonstrated  falsehoods.

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
7.1.95  Texan1211  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.94    4 years ago

nope. I stand by what you stated and I quoted to you.

denial is futile

 
 
 
GregTx
PhD Guide
7.1.96  GregTx  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.92    4 years ago

I doubt that there will ever be a justice candidate that believes everything on the list you provided. Are you suggesting that the perception of someone's beliefs carries more weight than their actions?

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.97  TᵢG  replied to  GregTx @7.1.96    4 years ago

Well of course nobody (well maybe some) would believe all that nonsense.   Again, I made an extreme list to make a point.  

Would you (if you were in a position to do so) vote for a candidate who held ALL those beliefs?

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.98  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.85    4 years ago
Unlike you who apparently would vote for a candidate who holds ALL of the above views

If she were the best, most qualified judge available, but I would have to be a bigoted asshole not to vote for her.

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.99  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.85    4 years ago
holding a view that aliens are possessing human bodies

You think that issue is going to come up a lot in court, do you?

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.100  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.98    4 years ago

Okay, you would vote for a candidate for SCotUS who held ALL of these irrational beliefs:

  • aliens (ET) are possessing human bodies in the United States
  • the planet is flat
  • the Earth is the center of the universe
  • sacrifices can prevent volcanic eruptions
  • slavery is perfectly natural and good
  • women should be dominated by men
  • s/he was abducted by aliens (ET) who inserted a probe in the body to monitor activity
  • ....

... as long as you (somehow, inexplicably) conclude that the candidate is the best qualified judge available.  

Now that is truly remarkable.  


Here is my view.   Believing everything on the above list would disqualify the candidate from consideration for the SCotUS.   I would vote for an inexperienced candidate who had normal rational beliefs (let's pick a Catholic Bishop for example to push the religious question) over an otherwise qualified candidate who held extreme irrational beliefs such as those on my list.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.101  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.99    4 years ago
You think that issue is going to come up a lot in court, do you?

Of course not.   It was an extreme hypothetical.   An absurd scenario just to see how far you would go before admitting that there are beliefs held by a candidate that would categorically eliminate them from consideration.

 
 
 
Tacos!
Professor Guide
7.1.102  Tacos!  replied to  TᵢG @7.1.101    4 years ago
An absurd scenario just to see how far you would go before admitting that there are beliefs held by a candidate that would categorically eliminate them from consideration.

The only way extreme beliefs would cause me to disqualify someone would be if those beliefs had something to do with the law. You want to disqualify a person based on unrelated issues you personally judge in the negative. That is a terrible way to hire anyone for anything.

 
 
 
TᵢG
Professor Principal
7.1.103  TᵢG  replied to  Tacos! @7.1.102    4 years ago
The only way extreme beliefs would cause me to disqualify someone would be if those beliefs had something to do with the law.

So you do not consider:

  • slavery is perfectly natural and good
  • women should be dominated by men

... to have something to do with the law??    Would you want a justice weighing in on abortion who holds that a particular man (e.g. husband) should decide if an abortion is allowed for a woman (e.g. his wife)?

Very strange view you have.


Also, do you think the SCotUS only deals with the law?   Certainly you understand that the SCotUS adjudicates complex scenarios that deal with myriad facets which manifest in society and these scenarios often involve a rational understanding of the natural world and of human nature.   Thus we have the following irrational beliefs as relevant too:

  • aliens (ET) are possessing human bodies in the United States
  • the planet is flat
  • the Earth is the center of the universe
  • sacrifices can prevent volcanic eruptions
  • s/he was abducted by aliens (ET) who inserted a probe in the body to monitor activity

If a case dealing with the natural world were to reach the SCotUS, I would hope that none of the justices would be mentally capable of holding any of the above extremely irrational beliefs.   And, specific to this thread and with a far less extreme example, I would hope that none of the justices irrationally believe that glossolalia is true ... that Pat Boone is actually extemporaneously speaking a spiritually-gifted language here:

and especially by sleazebags like Tilton:

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
8  Texan1211    4 years ago

I wonder if a Muslim would be subjected to this type of religious scrutiny?

 
 
 
Perrie Halpern R.A.
Professor Principal
8.1  Perrie Halpern R.A.  replied to  Texan1211 @8    4 years ago

LOL.. now that is funny. Like Trump would even consider a Muslim. 

And as for me, yes they should. 

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
8.1.1  Texan1211  replied to  Perrie Halpern R.A. @8.1    4 years ago
LOL.. now that is funny. Like Trump would even consider a Muslim. 

Funny, I didn't even mention Trump. Why did you?

And as for me, yes they should. 

That answer is consistent with wanting a religious test, which is against the law.

 
 
 
Perrie Halpern R.A.
Professor Principal
8.1.2  Perrie Halpern R.A.  replied to  Texan1211 @8.1.1    4 years ago
Funny, I didn't even mention Trump. Why did you?

Because he is doing the appointing.

That answer is consistent with wanting a religious test, which is against the law.

So you would be fine with any Muslim appointed?

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
8.1.3  Texan1211  replied to  Perrie Halpern R.A. @8.1.2    4 years ago
So you would be fine with any Muslim appointed?

Perhaps not any Muslim. I would have to check their record first, see what rulings they have made in the past, what rulings they had overturned, etc.

Exactly what I would do with any candidate.

Someone being a Muslim wouldn;t disqualify anyone, because that is a religious test and illegal.

 
 
 
Perrie Halpern R.A.
Professor Principal
8.1.4  Perrie Halpern R.A.  replied to  Texan1211 @8.1.3    4 years ago
Perhaps not any Muslim. I would have to check their record first, see what rulings they have made in the past, what rulings they had overturned, etc.

But wouldn't that be a religious test? I mean they might have had sound reasoning for their decision, that might also have merit Sharia Law. 

 
 
 
Texan1211
Professor Principal
8.1.5  Texan1211  replied to  Perrie Halpern R.A. @8.1.4    4 years ago
But wouldn't that be a religious test?

Not even remotely close to being one.

I mean they might have had sound reasoning for their decision, that might also have merit Sharia Law. 

That could be true, but if the decision had a foundation in our laws, how could you prove otherwise?

 
 

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