Posted on 03/31/2005 3:11:22 PM PST by Crackingham
House Majority Leader Tom DeLay on Thursday blamed Terri Schiavo's death on what he contended was a failed legal system and he raised the possibility of trying to impeach some of the federal judges in the case. "The time will come for the men responsible for this to answer for their behavior," said DeLay, R-Texas.
But a leading Democratic senator said DeLay's comments were "irresponsible and reprehensible." Sen. Edward Kennedy, D-Mass., said DeLay should make sure that people know he is not advocating violence against judges.
DeLay, the second-ranking House GOP lawmaker, helped lead congressional efforts 10 days ago to enact legislation designed to prod the federal courts into ordering the reinsertion of Schiavo's feeding tube. He said the courts' refusal to do just that was a "perfect example of an out of control judiciary."
Asked about the possibility of the House's bringing impeachment charges against judges in the Schiavo case, DeLay said, "There's plenty of time to look into that."
President Bush expressed sympathy to Schiavo's parents.
"I urge all those who honor Terri Schiavo to continue to work to build a culture of life where all Americans are welcomed and valued and protected, especially those who live at the mercy of others," he said.
White House spokesman Scott McClellan refused to join DeLay in criticizing the courts. "We would have preferred a different decision from the courts ... but ultimately we have to follow our laws and abide by the courts," McClellan said.
Joining DeLay in taking issue with the judiciary was Sen. Rick Santorum, R-Pa., who said, "The actions on the part of the Florida court and the U.S. Supreme Court are unconscionable." Also, GOP Rep. Patrick McHenry of North Carolina said the case "saw a state judge completely ignore a congressional committees subpoena and insult its intent" and "a federal court not only reject, but deride the very law that Congress passed."
DeLay said he would make sure that the GOP-controlled House "will look at an arrogant and out of control judiciary that thumbs its nose at Congress and the president."
Two words: DO IT
I agree. DeLay should clarify that he merely meant that Teddy should take the judges for a drive.
Hammer 'em, Tom.
Without delay... just do it!!
Three words: On What Grounds?
Two words: Notta Chance
Failure to provide a de novo review despite a statutory mandate to do so.
Don't DARE sweep this under the carpet!!!!!
DeLay is making a fool of himself.
If DeLay pulls this, it'll be political suicide for Republicans. Best to let it be handled by the people of the Great State of Florida. You've got more *important* issues on your docket Tom. Get off your lazy ass and get to work!
"irresponsible and reprehensible" = Sen. Edward Kennedy
Would someone ask Kennedy if he has talked to MaryJo lately?
I agree with you and I sense the frustration of others. This is not the answer. We must look forward and do what is needed to protect individual liberty, life and freedom.
That means good judges at the local level not just federal. The people that need to go here are in the Florida Senate and also Judge Greer.
The other Fed judges, I don't know. They were just rubber stamping the process. I don't think the Congress had directed a clear mandated order to perform the de novo review.
I may be wrong, but then again, my heart ain't right today. I'm truly saddened by the suffering of Terri's family.
Red
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