Diane Feinstein not buying the claim of John Roberts that he's like an umpire.

[Eric J in MN]

John Roberts 9/12/2005:

"Judges are like umpires. Umpires don't make the rules; they apply them.

The role of an umpire and a judge is critical. They make sure everybody plays by the rules.

But it is a limited role. Nobody ever went to a ball game to see the umpire."


Diane Feinstein today at Sonia Sotomayor confirmation hearing:

"So I do not believe that Supreme Court justices are merely umpires calling balls and strikes. Rather, I believe that they make the decisions of individuals who bring to the court their own experiences and philosophies. ... So I believe you, too, will bring your experiences and philosophy to this highest court. And I believe that will do only one thing and that is strengthen this high institution of our great country."