February 2, 2007

Of Personality and Principle: 'The Supreme Court'

By MARK C. RAHDERT

Never before has there been so much interest in the Supreme Court. Since Bush v. Gore determined the 2000 presidential election, Americans have become acutely aware of the court's power to shape our society. Interest in the court grew even further in 2005 when, after an unprecedented decade without change, not one but two places on the court opened up, including that of chief justice.

The newest members, Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr., have an