[rdb3]

Clarence Thomas, appointed by G.H.W. Bush, court term began 10/23/1991. Born near Savannah, GA 6/23/1948. Taciturn, but rock solid for the right. Confirmed by razor thin 52-48 vote. Aged 57. Has been on the court 14 years.

Why "taciturn"?

This is a ch__ch. What's missing?

[saveliberty]

He's silent mostly during the hearings and hardly ever asks a question.

What he went through during the hearing process was absolutely awful and I think that it had a major impact on him. I have heard him speak and he's excellent.

As far as votes go, Thomas is more reliably states rights than Scalia.

[Andy'smom]

He says very little but votes the right way.

[kylaka]

Thomas has become known for not asking questions during oral arguments before the court. My take is that he understands the issues well enough. The Left's take is that he doesn't want to embarass himself, and lets Scalia ask the questions for him. My guess is Thomas will have something to say soon enough, and it's going to leave marks on some folks backsides.

[Harmless Teddy Bear]

Why "taciturn"?

I think because he doesn't ask as many questions as the other Justices.

[caryatid]

I am not sure that the use of taciturn is inappropriate for Justice Clarence Thomas ... but only if it is not meant in a pejorative way. The definition of taciturn is temperamentally disinclined to talk. I think this fits rather well as Justice Thomas is measured and serious and is not one to spout off. He is a real favorite of ours. My "in house counsel" has read a number of Justice Thomas' opinions and has a high regard for the Justice's ability. I have heard him speak [televised speeches at various groups] and find him to be intelligent, logical and surprisingly humble. I have found him to be refreshing after the arrogance of so many in public life. In our household Justice Thomas is held in high regard for his staunch conservative values.