Chief Justice John Roberts is under pressure again. Next Tuesday, the Supreme Court will hear oral argument in a case that may decide the future for same-sax marriage throughout the country. The case of Obergefell v. Hodges is becoming increasingly important and may even help determine the next President of the United States. Roberts has a conservative-leaning track record during his time on the bench. His track record will mean nothing though, come Tuesday. Some may remember how Roberts voted to uphold Obamacare three years ago. Although he has a conservative record, that does not matter in the world of law. According to our textbook, the Supreme Court has three primary functions: to settle disputes; to determine if a group or individual has violated a law; and implementing policy. If it is decided in the vote to allow same-sax marriage, the courts would be in charge of implementing this policy and making the policy all throughout the country.
One thing’s for certain, Chief Justice Roberts will be watched and listened to very, very carefully on Tuesday. Reporters and other people will look for both verbal and nonverbal clues, such as when he is talking or if he makes a gesture.
