Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, spoke against Supreme Court nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson during her Senate confirmation vote on April 7.
“For judicial nominees their philosophy … [on] how to decide cases ought to be a primary consideration. Part of having a judicial philosophy is having an understanding of the fundamental principles of our Constitution. Natural rights are a part of that system. Judge Jackson explained to us that she does not “hold a position” on whether individuals possess natural rights. Now, that ought to be very shocking,” Grassley said.
“Natural rights are basic to our constitutional system and principles of limited government. Because we all know our country was founded on the belief that’s expressed in the Declaration of Independence: All men are created equal and they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights. Among these are the life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” he added.
Grassley was referencing Jackson’s response to a written question asked by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, on whether she held a position on natural rights, Jackson said, “I do not hold a position on whether individuals possess natural rights.”
Jackson was nominated by President Joe Biden in February to replace retiring Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer. If confirmed, Jackson will be the first Black woman on the high court.
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