1.  With what characteristics did Judge Roberts promise to rule?  What characteristic do you think is the most important for a judge to have?  Explain your answer.

2.  Why is Judge Roberts' age significant?  How many Chief Justices have come before him?  Who was the youngest Chief Justice?  Which Chief Justice was in office the longest?

3.  Judge Roberts said that "judging is different from politics."  What did he probably mean by that statement?

4.  What did Senator Schumer (D-NY) say Democrats will do if the nominee to replace Justice O'Conner is "out of the mainstream"?  What do you think he means by "out of the mainstream?"

5.  Where does Senator Specter (R-PA) stand on the issue of abortion?  Why do you think Sen. Specter voted to confirm Judge Roberts' nomination even though their personal beliefs about abortion are probably different?

6.  How should a judge rule on any issue: based on his personal beliefs of right and wrong or based on the meaning of the Constitution?  Explain your answer.