I have read so much lately in the paper from people who rant and rave about the decisions that some judges make. Politicians, office holders, commentators, columnists and citizens writing letters are quick to point out that a lot of people disagree with the judicial decisions. These people seem to have forgotten their high school civics lessons. Here is a quick reminder:
Our government is composed of three separate branches that are meant to check and balance each other, not to agree and support each other.
Majority does not rule. In the United States we have the rule of law, which includes the Constitution with all of its amendments, including the Bill of Rights. It was the rule of law, not the will of the majority, that granted voting rights to all and overturned institutionalized segregation.
Federal judges are appointed and approved by people who are elected. They have lifetime terms specifically so that they need not be swayed by the current popular opinion.
State and local judges are elected. That is why you need to attend meetings during the campaign season, so that you can meet the judicial candidates and know for whom you are voting.
We live in a great and wonderful country that is unique in the history of this world. Let us support our government even as we challenge those who govern us.
Gary McCaig
Lynnwood
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