Supreme Court Health Care Decision: Conservative Chief Justice John Roberts Broke Obamacare Tie

Impact

Back in 2005, many Republicans were thrilled when John Roberts was named to the Supreme Court. Conversely, most Democrats were ready to vehemently oppose approval. John Roberts was considered to be a conservative judge who would be a long term proponent of Neo-Republican philosophy.

Today, Democrats are rejoicing the deciding vote that Roberts, as Chief Justice, has cast in favor of Obamacare. Republicans are left, jaws agape, wondering what happened. Neither side should be particularly shocked by Roberts' vote.

During his confirmation hearings, Roberts testified and told anyone listening that he "had no platform ... I have no agenda, but I do have a commitment. If I am confirmed, I will confront every case with an open mind. I will fully and fairly analyze the legal arguments that are presented. I will be open to the considered views of my colleagues on the bench. And I will decide every case based on the record, according to the rule of law, without fear or favor, to the best of my ability. And I will remember that it's my job to call balls and strikes and not to pitch or bat."

Many scoffed at this but as it turns out, Roberts seems to have meant everything that he said. Today's decision gives Roberts the firm footing going forward to be able to say that he truly viewed all cases objectively; his opinion will also carry much more weight than they would have had he voted with the GOP. 

Despite my overall disagreement with the upholding of Obamacare as it is currently constituted, I must admit to feeling refreshed by Roberts's willingness to prove that his statements in 2005 were meant to be taken seriously. For me, any political vote that can embarrass either of the two political parties ruling America is a vote for "We the People." Touche Mr. Roberts and good for you!